Last week had some upsets and that is going to roll into my Week 9 survivor pool picks. There will also be a lot of new faces on teams, as the trade deadline just finished. The Ravens added Roquan Smith to their defense but didn’t upgrade their offense.
The Dolphins added Bradley Chubb to help with their lackluster defense the last couple of weeks. They also add some insurance to their backfield with Jeff Wilson Jr.
As we are at the mid-season point, picks are getting tougher and tougher. But, I’ve taken the time to ensure you don’t end up with any more strikes for the rest of the season.
As a recap, I already used up my picks on the Ravens, Rams, Falcons, Eagles, Vikings, Buccaneers, and Packers. However, since the season is halfway through, I will add some honorable mentions with teams I’ve picked earlier on in the season.
Week 9 Survivor Pool Picks
Let’s get into it. All lines are taken from ESPN
Baltimore Ravens (-2.5) @ New Orleans Saints
Pick: New Orleans Saints
Yes, I know I took the Raiders to beat the Saints last week and the Saints took that as disrespect. But, I learned a lot from that game. The Saints are still elite on defense and Alvin Kamara is finally back.
On the other side, the Ravens did add some defense, but they will be lacking on offense. Mark Andrews is questionable and the Ravens have a Week 10 bye, so I can see Andrews sitting out one more game. Gus Edwards is also questionable and Rashod Bateman will miss time with a foot injury.
This leaves the Ravens with Lamar Jackson having to do everything, and I don’t see them winning this primetime game on the road.
Miami Dolphins (-5) @ Chicago Bears
Pick: Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins had me nervous last week against the Lions, but they came through. The offense looks elite with Raheem Mostert, Jaylen Waddle and Tyreek Hill. The defense should have some more firepower with Chubb.
The Bears did add Chase Claypool, but I don’t see him giving them an edge this week. Justin Fields is starting to look better, but I don’t trust him in a close game. I don’t trust him throwing the ball deep.
Even Though the Dolphins are on the road, I see this as an easy win for them. The Dolphins have way too much speed on offense for the Bears to keep up with. Also, the Bears lost their leading tackle machine, Smith who is now on the Ravens.
Seattle Seahawks (-1.5) @ Arizona Cardinals
Pick: Arizona Cardinals
This seems like it will be one of the more fun games to watch this week. The Seahawks are coming off a big win against the Giants. The Cardinals just lost a close one against the Vikings. But, this week I’m going to take the Cardinals in a close one.
All signs point to the Seahawks, as Geno Smith has been dealing with DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett. As well as Kenneth Walker III running the ball. But, I like what I’m seeing from the Cardinals as of late.
DeAndre Hopkins is playing like the best receiver in the league. And Rondale Moore is looking like he could finish as a top 20 wide receiver this year. His speed in the slot is a cheat code. The running game could also pick up if James Connor is available this week.
Kyler Murray was one interception in the fourth quarter from coming away with a win. If Murray cleans up his play, they can easily come away with a victory on the road.
My Pick: Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins look like the safest pick this week. The Bears look like they want to tank this season with some moves they made at the deadline. I believe Miami’s offense is too overpowered for the Bear’s defense. The secondary might be able to stick with the receivers, but the pass rush will not be there.
There is only so long that you could keep Hill and Waddle contained.
Honorable Picks: Green Bay Packers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Minnesota Vikings.
Also make sure to check out our Week 9 Rankings: QB | RB | WR | TE | Flex Rankings