NFL Week 9 Highlights: Lamar Jackson Returns, Chiefs Challenge Bills – Five Key Matchups
As the NFL season heats up, Week 9 offers exciting action with star players back in the lineup and fierce rivalries on display. Fans can look forward to Lamar Jackson’s comeback for the struggling Baltimore Ravens and a high-stakes clash between the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills. With teams fighting for playoff spots, here are five important things to watch this week.
1. Lamar Jackson Boosts Ravens’ Slim Hopes Against Dolphins
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is ready to play after sitting out three games with a hamstring injury. He feels fully healthy now and will lead his team against the Miami Dolphins on Thursday night. The Ravens sit at 2-5, and history shows it’s rare for teams to reach the playoffs after starting 2-6. Jackson’s return could spark a turnaround for Baltimore in this must-win game.
2. Mahomes vs. Allen: Chiefs and Bills Renew Intense Rivalry
Sunday’s showdown between the undefeated Kansas City Chiefs and the Buffalo Bills marks the 10th time in six years that Patrick Mahomes faces Josh Allen. Allen holds a 4-1 edge in regular-season games, but Mahomes is perfect at 4-0 in the playoffs against him. Kansas City’s offense has scored nearly 31 points per game over its last five outings, while Buffalo’s defense shone last week despite losing key player Ed Oliver to a bicep tear. The game starts at 4:25 p.m. ET on CBS.
3. Can Week 9 Deliver Closer Contests After Dull Week 8?
Last week’s games were unusually one-sided, with only one close finish since 1970—the New York Jets’ narrow 39-38 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. Week 9 has big point spreads, but NFL matchups often surprise fans with late drama. Expect more edge-of-your-seat moments as underdogs push back.
4. Defensive Battle Looms in Broncos-Texans Clash
The Denver Broncos travel to face the Houston Texans in a game set for low scores, thanks to both teams’ stout defenses. Houston tops the league in yards and points allowed per game, while Denver leads in sacks. The total points line is just 39.5—one of the season’s lowest. At 3-4, the Texans need a win to stay in the AFC South race behind the 7-1 Indianapolis Colts.
5. Kyler Murray Eyes Perfect Streak at Cowboys’ Home
Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray, dealing with a foot sprain, is likely to suit up for Monday night’s game against the Dallas Cowboys. He has never lost at AT&T Stadium, going 5-0 in high school, 1-0 in college, and 2-0 in the pros versus Dallas. The 2-5 Cardinals can’t afford a loss, as dropping to 2-6 would dash their playoff dreams.
Week 9 could shift the standings dramatically, with these games highlighting the league’s talent and unpredictability. Stay tuned for updates as the action unfolds.
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