Jim Derry’s Week 9 NFL Picks: Can Saints Continue Their Success? What About Bills vs. Bengals and Chiefs vs. Dolphins?

Jim Derry has been having a successful season with his NFL predictions. He holds a 23-17 record in his best bets against the spread, an overall 63-55 record ATS, and a 73-48 record with over/unders.

As we delve into the article, it’s evident that we are now at the point in the NFL season where coaching changes are common, and the impact of these changes on the teams’ performance remains uncertain.

For example, the Las Vegas Raiders, despite their struggles, are favored at home against the New York Giants, highlighting the presence of some underperforming teams in the league.

Derry also points out that there is a sense of parity at the top of the NFL, which is bad news for the weaker teams but exciting for NFL fans.

He mentions the Washington Football Team and the rumors surrounding their coaching changes, suggesting that they might be looking to replace Ron Rivera with Eric Bieniemy.

He questions their decision to trade away two of their star defensive ends, signaling a challenging road ahead.

The article also discusses concerns about poor officiating and questionable calls in NFL games. Derry references an incident in the Ravens-Cardinals game, where an official’s decision to move the ball backward on a fourth-down play raised questions about the integrity of officiating.

Derry reflects on his previous predictions and notes that he made a prediction for the Giants-Jets game, expecting a low-scoring contest, which indeed happened.

The article then proceeds to Jim Derry’s Week 9 NFL picks, including the reasoning behind his choices for various matchups:

1. Kansas City (-1.5) over Miami: Derry leans towards the Chiefs due to their strong record against weaker teams and the Miami Dolphins’ struggles against good teams. He also factors in Patrick Mahomes’ health and the Chiefs’ defense.
2. Buffalo (+2) over Cincinnati: Derry explains his pick for the Bills, believing they perform well against strong teams and deeming this game as a statement opportunity for Buffalo.
3. Teaser, Minnesota (+11) over Atlanta and Tampa Bay (+8.5) over Houston: Derry combines two teams in a teaser, expecting the Minnesota Vikings to perform well despite quarterback uncertainties and Tampa Bay Buccaneers to do well on the road.
4. Money-line parlay (+100), Cleveland over Arizona, and LA Chargers over NY Jets: Derry considers the uncertainty surrounding Kyler Murray’s status and thinks the Browns can win at home. He also predicts a victory for the Chargers against the struggling Jets.
5. Las Vegas (-125 ML) over NY Giants: Derry believes that the Raiders can perform better at home after the recent firing of Josh McDaniels. He also takes into account the Giants’ offensive challenges.

 

Assessing New Orleans Saints’ Rookie Performances in Week 9…

In Week 9, the New Orleans Saints rookies showcased their potential. Let’s evaluate how these young talents are faring as they aim to join the ranks of the Saints’ successful draft picks from the last decade.

Jordan Howden: The fifth-round pick, Jordan Howden, appears to have secured a starting role with the Saints. In their victory against the Colts, the rookie logged an impressive 71 snaps. Howden allowed just two receptions out of the four passes thrown his way. Notably, he displayed versatility by lining up in various positions, with 29 snaps in the box, 19 at free safety, and 17 in the slot. The University of Minnesota product is validating the Saints’ decision to select him on Day 3 of the draft.

Bryan Bresee: The Saints’ first-round choice, Bryan Bresee, is exhibiting glimpses of excellence as a defensive tackle. He has demonstrated the ability to disrupt both the passing and rushing game. Although there are some rookie mistakes and areas where he needs refinement, the Clemson alum is showing considerable potential.

A.T. Perry: While Saints fans had seen little of the Wake Forest receiver, A.T. Perry made his NFL debut against the Colts. His playing time was limited, as he was on the field for just eight snaps.

Kendre Miller: Kendre Miller currently faces a challenging situation in a backfield crowded with talents like Alvin Kamara and Jamaal Williams. Nevertheless, Miller has shown promise in his limited opportunities, successfully catching eight out of nine pass attempts for a total of 80 yards.