Welcome to the ultimate guide for Week 9 of the 2025 NFL season! This Halloween weekend brings a captivating slate of matchups, packed with intensity, rivalries, and critical implications for playoff races. Whether you’re a devoted fan, a shrewd bettor, or a meticulous fantasy manager, this comprehensive breakdown offers unparalleled insights, bold predictions, and expert picks to help you navigate every game on the Week 9 NFL schedule. From high-stakes showdowns to surprising underdog stories, we’ve got all the essential information you need to prepare for Sunday’s action and Monday Night Football.
Week 9 NFL Kickoff: A Thrilling Halloween Weekend
This year’s Week 9 presents some truly spooky matchups. Football fans are buzzing about the highly anticipated clash between Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen, a rivalry that consistently delivers nail-biting finishes. In the NFC North, the Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Lions are set to battle for crucial divisional standing. Additionally, the New Orleans Saints will witness rookie quarterback Tyler Shough’s regular-season debut against the formidable Los Angeles Rams, adding an intriguing narrative to the slate.
Our expert team has compiled a wealth of information to keep you informed. We’ve tapped into locker room chatter from NFL Nation reporters, pulled key statistics from ESPN Research, and integrated cutting-edge analytics from Seth Walder. Fantasy football intel from Eric Moody, FPI matchup quality ratings, and final score predictions from Pamela Maldonado, Moody, and Walder round out our in-depth coverage. Get ready for a full breakdown of every contest, culminating with the Monday Night Football spectacle featuring the Arizona Cardinals and Dallas Cowboys.
(All game times are Sunday unless otherwise noted)
Thursday Recap: BAL 28, MIA 6
Bye Weeks: CLE, NYJ, PHI, TB
Denver Broncos (6-2) at Houston Texans (3-4)
Kickoff: 1 p.m. ET | Fox
Matchup Rating: 70.5/100 | ESPN BET: HOU -1.5 (39.5 O/U)
The Denver Broncos face a major defensive challenge in Houston, with star cornerback Pat Surtain II sidelined by a left pectoral strain. This absence is particularly impactful for a team that runs man-to-man coverage on over 60% of its snaps. Denver’s defensive coordinator will need to adjust their strategy, potentially shifting to more zone coverage or being selective in blitzing Texans QB C.J. Stroud, who carved them up for 274 yards in 2023 despite five sacks.
On the other side, the Texans’ offensive line, ranked 28th in pass block win rate, must contend with Denver’s league-leading 36 sacks. Houston did show improvement last week, allowing zero sacks, and hopes to carry that momentum. Historically, the Texans’ defense has been stingy this season, yielding a franchise-low 103 points through seven games. Analytics writer Seth Walder boldly predicts Broncos CB Riley Moss will limit targets to 12% or lower, even with Surtain out, suggesting Moss’s average coverage snap performance will hold.
Fantasy & Betting Angles:
Fantasy managers might be forced to consider Broncos QB Bo Nix and WR Courtland Sutton due to bye weeks. However, the Texans’ defense has proven tough, allowing the fewest fantasy points to QBs and fourth fewest to WRs. This suggests setting realistic expectations is crucial. From a betting perspective, the Texans have struggled against winning teams, posting a 1-4 ATS record in such matchups this season.
Maldonado’s Pick: Texans 23, Broncos 20
Moody’s Pick: Broncos 20, Texans 17
Walder’s Pick: Broncos 23, Texans 17
FPI Prediction: HOU, 50.1% (by 0.3 points)
Indianapolis Colts (7-1) at Pittsburgh Steelers (4-3)
Kickoff: 1 p.m. ET | CBS
Matchup Rating: 67.5/100 | ESPN BET: IND -3.5 (50.5 O/U)
Indianapolis boasts the league’s top offense, but their injury-riddled defense is beginning to show cracks. They rank 24th in yards allowed and 30th in third-down defense. Facing a fully healthy Aaron Rodgers-led Steelers offense will be a significant test, potentially forcing the Colts into a shootout. While they have the firepower to win high-scoring affairs, consistent defensive stops will be key.
Pittsburgh’s defense, meanwhile, is reeling from injuries, particularly in the secondary. After struggling against the Packers’ tight ends, they now face rookie sensation Tyler Warren, who leads all tight ends with 492 yards. The absence of hard-hitting S DeShon Elliott (knee) and the recent trade for Patriots S Kyle Dugger, who may not be fully integrated, leaves a vulnerable spot. Colts RB Jonathan Taylor has been an absolute touchdown machine, with 14 scores this season, matching or exceeding the offensive output of five entire NFL teams. Analytics suggest a tough day for Steelers RB Jaylen Warren, as Seth Walder predicts under 4.0 yards per carry given the Colts’ league-best run defense against inside zone schemes.
Fantasy & Betting Angles:
Both Steelers WR DK Metcalf and Colts WR Michael Pittman Jr. are in favorable fantasy spots, facing defenses that rank poorly against wide receivers. Metcalf has consistently delivered, while Pittman has seen a high target share and strong fantasy production recently. Betting-wise, the Colts are a strong 6-2 ATS, tied for the best record in the NFL, demonstrating particular reliability as favorites and in conference play.
Maldonado’s Pick: Colts 30, Steelers 27
Moody’s Pick: Colts 35, Steelers 28
Walder’s Pick: Colts 24, Steelers 20
FPI Prediction: IND, 57.5% (by 3.1 points)
Minnesota Vikings (3-4) at Detroit Lions (5-2)
Kickoff: 1 p.m. ET | Fox
Matchup Rating: 60.3/100 | ESPN BET: DET -9.5 (48.5 O/U)
The NFC North rivalry heats up as the Detroit Lions, led by QB Jared Goff, have historically dominated the Vikings, scoring 30+ points in their last four encounters. Goff boasts an 80.6 QBR and an impressive 78.5% completion rate against Minnesota in those games. The Vikings, who are the only NFL team with multiple sacks in every game this season, will need to pressure Goff and disrupt his rhythm. A fascinating storyline emerges with Lions edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson facing his former college teammate, rookie QB J.J. McCarthy, marking their first NFL matchup.
Seth Walder’s bold prediction is that Goff will record a QBR under 50. This hinges on Minnesota’s zone-heavy defense exploiting Detroit’s significant man-zone splits, where Goff performs much better against man coverage.
Fantasy & Betting Angles:
Lions RB Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jared Goff are strong home fantasy plays. Goff’s home QBR averages 20.1 points per game, and the Vikings’ defense has recently given up big fantasy numbers to opposing quarterbacks. Bettors should note Minnesota’s impressive 14-7 ATS road record since 2023, though all four of their road games this season have gone over the total.
Maldonado’s Pick: Lions 30, Vikings 17
Moody’s Pick: Lions 34, Vikings 17
Walder’s Pick: Vikings 23, Lions 21
FPI Prediction: DET, 74.9% (by 10.3 points)
Carolina Panthers (4-4) at Green Bay Packers (5-1-1)
Kickoff: 1 p.m. ET | Fox
Matchup Rating: 55.8/100 | ESPN BET: GB -13.5 (44.5 O/U)
Panthers QB Bryce Young is expected to return to the starting lineup after an ankle sprain, but the offense might look different. Coach Dave Canales indicated a heavier workload for RB Rico Dowdle, aiming to reduce pressure on Young. This run-heavy approach will be tested against Green Bay’s third-best rush defense.
Packers QB Jordan Love is on a scorching streak, completing 20 straight passes last week and boasting 13 touchdowns to just two interceptions this season. His impressive 70.9% completion rate echoes his strong finish to the 2023 season. Despite Love’s stellar play, the Packers have struggled with takeaways, tied for the second-fewest in the NFL with only four this season. Seth Walder predicts another big game for Packers WR Christian Watson, who returned from injury last week with 85 yards on limited routes, often targeted deep.
Fantasy & Betting Angles:
Panthers WR Tetairoa McMillan saw a season-high seven receptions and 10 targets last week, averaging 12.5 fantasy points. He could continue to shine against a Packers defense that has struggled with outside receivers recently. Betting on the Panthers as underdogs has been a profitable strategy, with a 12-4 ATS record in their past 16 games in that role.
Maldonado’s Pick: Packers 27, Panthers 19
Moody’s Pick: Packers 28, Panthers 17
Walder’s Pick: Packers 30, Panthers 9
FPI Prediction: GB, 77.1% (by 11.5 points)
San Francisco 49ers (5-3) at New York Giants (2-6)
Kickoff: 1 p.m. ET | CBS
Matchup Rating: 55.4/100 | ESPN BET: SF -2.5 (48.5 O/U)
The San Francisco 49ers’ offense has been surprisingly stagnant, averaging just 20 points per game – their lowest through eight games under Kyle Shanahan. They face a Giants defense that has surrendered 215 points, the most for New York at this stage since 2019. However, Shanahan warns that the Giants’ defensive line is elite, capable of generating significant pass rush.
The Giants will be without rookie RB Cam Skattebo (season-ending ankle/tibia injury), putting more pressure on second-year RB Tyrone Tracy Jr. and veteran WR Darius Slayton to step up against a top-10 49ers scoring defense. Despite offensive struggles, San Francisco ranks second in the NFL in passing yards per game (259.3). Seth Walder projects Giants WR Wan’dale Robinson to have seven or more receptions, highlighting a favorable matchup against a struggling 49ers nickelback.
Fantasy & Betting Angles:
Tyrone Tracy Jr. is expected to inherit a substantial workload for the Giants, offering fantasy value against a 49ers defense that has seen key injuries (Fred Warner, Nick Bosa) and has struggled with pressure, tackling, and coverage. Bettors should note a compelling trend: overs are 11-1 in 49ers games following a loss since the start of last season.
Maldonado’s Pick: 49ers 34, Giants 29
Moody’s Pick: 49ers 23, Giants 21
Walder’s Pick: Giants 31, 49ers 27
FPI Prediction: NYG, 56.2% (by 2.5 points)
Chicago Bears (4-3) at Cincinnati Bengals (3-5)
Kickoff: 1 p.m. ET | CBS
Matchup Rating: 48.9/100 | ESPN BET: CHI -2.5 (51.5 O/U)
The Chicago Bears’ offense desperately needs to improve its red zone efficiency, where they rank second-lowest in the NFL (36.8% TD percentage) since Week 3. This Week 9 NFL matchup against the Bengals, who rank 30th in red zone defense (70.3% TD rate), offers a potential opportunity for a breakthrough. Coach Ben Johnson emphasizes the need to run the ball more effectively inside the 10-yard line.
For the Bengals, starting QB Joe Flacco’s availability (shoulder injury) is a major concern. If backup Jake Browning, who has thrown eight interceptions this season, starts, he faces a tough test against the Bears’ league-leading 11 interceptions and top turnover margin. Cincinnati’s defense has also been problematic, allowing an NFL-worst 31.6 points per game and risking a third consecutive game of 30+ points allowed. Seth Walder predicts Bears RB D’Andre Swift will rush for over 100 yards, leveraging Chicago’s high rate of outside zone runs against a Bengals defense that struggles to defend it.
Fantasy & Betting Angles:
Bengals RBs Chase Brown and Samaje Perine both had strong fantasy outings last week. With Flacco potentially out, Cincinnati could lean heavily on their run game against a Bears defense that ranks 25th in run stop win rate and allows the sixth-most rushing yards per game. From a betting perspective, overs have hit in all four Bengals home games and Bears road games this season, pointing to potentially high-scoring affairs.
Maldonado’s Pick: Bears 20, Bengals 13
Moody’s Pick: Bengals 35, Bears 31
Walder’s Pick: Bears 30, Bengals 16
FPI Prediction: CHI, 54.6% (by 1.7 points)
Atlanta Falcons (3-4) at New England Patriots (6-2)
Kickoff: 1 p.m. ET | CBS
Matchup Rating: 42.2/100 | ESPN BET: NE -5.5 (44.5 O/U)
The Atlanta Falcons’ defense, which leads the league in blitz rate (47.8%) and allows the fewest passing yards per game (149.1), prepares to face Patriots QB Drake Maye. Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich likened Maye to a “younger Josh Allen,” indicating the respect he commands. Atlanta will aim to disrupt Maye with their aggressive scheme.
New England faces potential depth issues at running back with starter Rhamondre Stevenson (toe) missing practice. Rookie TreVeyon Henderson and undrafted free agent Terrell Jennings are next in line. Stevenson’s absence is also critical for pass protection, a key concern against Atlanta’s blitz-heavy approach. Patriots WR Kayshon Boutte is on a three-game receiving touchdown streak and could extend it, a rare feat for a Patriots receiver. Seth Walder makes a bold prediction that Maye will lead the league in QBR this week, noting his exceptional performance against man coverage, which the Falcons employ 58% of the time.
Fantasy & Betting Angles:
Falcons TE Kyle Pitts Sr. has seen a surge in targets and fantasy points recently. Despite New England’s formidable defense, they rank fifth-worst in fantasy points allowed to tight ends, making Pitts an intriguing play. Bettors should be cautious with Atlanta as underdogs, given their 6-14 ATS record in their past 20 games in that position.
Maldonado’s Pick: Patriots 30, Falcons 10
Moody’s Pick: Patriots 24, Falcons 21
Walder’s Pick: Patriots 31, Falcons 20
FPI Prediction: NE, 64.9% (by 5.8 points)
Los Angeles Chargers (5-3) at Tennessee Titans (1-7)
Kickoff: 1 p.m. ET | CBS
Matchup Rating: 39.5/100 | ESPN BET: LAC -9.5 (43.5 O/U)
This Week 9 NFL contest carries a “revenge game” narrative for several Chargers players who previously played for the Titans, including key defensive contributors DT Teair Tart and S Elijah Molden. While Molden downplayed added motivation, the Chargers will be looking to capitalize.
The Titans’ secondary is severely depleted due to recent trades and injuries, creating a prime opportunity for Chargers QB Justin Herbert, the NFL’s passing yards leader (2,140). Tennessee is desperate to avoid losing four straight games by double digits, a streak not seen since the franchise relocated. Seth Walder predicts Chargers edge rusher Tuli Tuipulotu will record two or more sacks, citing QB Cam Ward’s high sack rate (11%) as a key factor.
Fantasy & Betting Angles:
Chargers RB Kimani Vidal has been a fantasy revelation, with high touch counts and strong fantasy production in recent games. As heavy favorites, the Chargers should see positive game flow, and the Titans’ defense allows the third-most fantasy points to running backs. Betting-wise, the Titans have struggled significantly, going 1-6 ATS in their last seven games, including 0-4 ATS as an underdog.
Maldonado’s Pick: Chargers 28, Titans 14
Moody’s Pick: Chargers 33, Titans 17
Walder’s Pick: Chargers 31, Titans 12
FPI Prediction: LAC, 74% (by 9.9 points)
New Orleans Saints (1-7) at Los Angeles Rams (5-2)
Kickoff: 4:05 p.m. ET | Fox
Matchup Rating: 46.3/100 | ESPN BET: LAR -14.5 (43.5 O/U)
Rookie QB Tyler Shough will make his first career start for the Saints, with coach Kellen Moore indicating Shough will be the starter for the remainder of the season. This is a significant moment for the struggling Saints, as they face a Rams team on a hot streak.
The Rams’ defense has been generating consistent pressure, recording four or more sacks in back-to-back games, a feat that would tie their longest streak under Sean McVay. McVay praised his defense’s efficiency on early downs, highlighting their elite pass rush. Saints RB Alvin Kamara has been in a career slump, failing to reach 40 rushing yards in his last four games, tying his longest such streak. Seth Walder’s bold prediction is a Darious Williams interception, given the strong season the Rams CB is having against a rookie QB making his debut.
Fantasy & Betting Angles:
Rams QB Matthew Stafford, along with WRs Puka Nacua and Davante Adams, are poised for big fantasy performances. Stafford was averaging 25+ fantasy points in the games leading up to the bye, and the Saints’ defense has allowed the sixth-most touchdown passes in the league. For bettors, the Saints have been one of the worst teams ATS this season, with a 2-6 record.
Maldonado’s Pick: Rams 27, Saints 18
Moody’s Pick: Rams 31, Saints 16
Walder’s Pick: Rams 29, Saints 10
FPI Prediction: LAR, 86% (by 16.3 points)
Jacksonville Jaguars (4-3) at Las Vegas Raiders (2-5)
Kickoff: 4:05 p.m. ET | FOX
Matchup Rating: 30.8/100 | ESPN BET: JAX -2.5 (44.5 O/U)
To snap a two-game losing streak, Jaguars coach Liam Coen is prioritizing offensive balance. The team’s recent losses saw a skewed pass-run ratio, and Coen explicitly stated the need for more run calls. Jacksonville also leads the league in offensive penalties, which has consistently put them behind the sticks.
Raiders coach Pete Carroll expressed admiration for Jaguars WR/CB Travis Hunter, a Heisman Trophy winner. Hunter, who set season highs in targets, receptions, and fantasy points before the bye, will be a key player. The Raiders’ offense has been anemic, held under 30 points in 27 consecutive games, the longest active streak in the NFL. Seth Walder predicts Jaguars CB Greg Newsome II will allow a touchdown in coverage, despite his limited snaps since joining the team.
Fantasy & Betting Angles:
Travis Hunter is poised to continue his strong rookie campaign, especially with Brian Thomas Jr. limited by injury and the Raiders’ defense struggling against wide receivers. Bettors should note the Raiders’ poor ATS record, going 1-5 in their last six games and 0-4 as an underdog in that span.
Maldonado’s Pick: Jaguars 27, Raiders 21
Moody’s Pick: Jaguars 27, Raiders 19
Walder’s Pick: Jaguars 24, Raiders 20
FPI Prediction: JAX, 54.6% (by 2.4 points)
Kansas City Chiefs (5-3) at Buffalo Bills (5-2)
Kickoff: 4:25 p.m. ET | CBS
Matchup Rating: 89/100 | ESPN BET: KC -2.5 (52.5 O/U)
This is perhaps the most anticipated Week 9 NFL matchup, reigniting the intense rivalry between Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen. Mahomes acknowledges the unique atmosphere of playing in Buffalo, noting the Bills’ passionate dislike for the Chiefs. This marks their 10th head-to-head meeting (including playoffs), a remarkable frequency for under-30 QBs from different divisions.
The Bills’ offense, despite having MVP Josh Allen and an explosive James Cook III, has questions lingering about its outside passing game. Their defense is also managing injuries, needing to step up against a Chiefs offense that’s found its rhythm since Rashee Rice’s return. Allen emphasized the “heightened sense of awareness” needed against a top-tier opponent like Mahomes. Seth Walder boldly predicts the Bills will exploit the Chiefs’ vulnerability against crossing routes, logging multiple 30+ yard gains on such plays.
Fantasy & Betting Angles:
Chiefs RB Kareem Hunt is set up for success with Isiah Pacheco dealing with an MCL sprain. Hunt’s nose for the end zone (five TDs in eight games) makes him a strong fantasy option, especially against a Bills defense that allows the sixth-most fantasy points to running backs. Betting trends heavily favor Josh Allen in this regular-season rivalry, as he holds a 4-1 outright and ATS record against Mahomes, with four consecutive wins and covers.
Maldonado’s Pick: Chiefs 23, Bills 20
Moody’s Pick: Chiefs 32, Bills 24
Walder’s Pick: Bills 27, Chiefs 24
FPI Prediction: KC, 58.2% (by 2.6 points)
Seattle Seahawks (5-2) at Washington Commanders (3-5)
Kickoff: 8:20 p.m. ET | NBC
Matchup Rating: 63.6/100 | ESPN BET: SEA -2.5 (47.5 O/U)
The Seattle Seahawks are preparing for either Jayden Daniels or Marcus Mariota at quarterback for the Commanders, with coach Mike Macdonald noting that Washington’s offensive scheme remains consistent regardless. Both QBs possess strong arm talent and the ability to extend plays, posing a dual threat.
Washington’s defense continues to be plagued by explosive plays, allowing 27 pass plays of 20+ yards, among the most in the NFL. This vulnerability creates a significant opportunity for Seahawks WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who leads the league with 14 receptions of 20+ yards in only seven games. Sam Darnold has also shown a propensity for big plays, with 19 completions of 20+ air yards this season. Seth Walder predicts Commanders LB Bobby Wagner will lead all players in combined tackles for Week 9, highlighting his consistent production and the potential for Seattle to run the ball heavily if they get a lead.
Fantasy & Betting Angles:
Seahawks RB Zach Charbonnet is in a favorable spot, running behind an offensive line that ranks 10th in run block win rate. The Commanders’ defense is middle-of-the-pack against running backs, and Charbonnet has consistently seen 10+ touches, hitting a season-high 19.5 fantasy points before the bye. Betting on the Commanders in prime time has been a losing proposition, with an 11-26-1 ATS record since 2013, including 0-3 this season.
Maldonado’s Pick: Seahawks 30, Commanders 19
Moody’s Pick: Seahawks 28, Commanders 21
Walder’s Pick: Seahawks 27, Commanders 21
FPI Prediction: WSH, 56.8% (by 2.3 points)
Arizona Cardinals (2-5) at Dallas Cowboys (3-4-1)
Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET | ABC, ESPN
Matchup Rating: 54.2/100 | ESPN BET: DAL -2.5 (53.5 O/U)
The Arizona Cardinals find themselves at a crossroads after a five-game losing streak. Coach Jonathan Gannon emphasizes focusing on the present to turn their season around. On the other side, the Dallas Cowboys are in “must-win” territory at the season’s midway point, particularly for their playoff aspirations. Historically, the Cowboys have performed well before their bye weeks, which this game precedes.
A peculiar stat: the Cowboys are the first team in NFL history to average 30.0 points per game through eight games while still holding a negative point differential. If he starts, Seth Walder expects Cardinals QB Kyler Murray (foot) to record his highest air-yards-per-attempt game of the season, as Cowboys opponents average the highest air yards per attempt (8.6) in the NFL.
Fantasy & Betting Angles:
Cardinals WR Marvin Harrison Jr. has had an underwhelming season so far but faces a favorable matchup against a Cowboys defense that has struggled against outside receivers, allowing the most fantasy points per game to wideouts. For bettors, Cowboys QB Dak Prescott has a strong historical ATS record as a home favorite (29-22-1), with overs hitting in 35 of those 52 games.
Maldonado’s Pick: Cowboys 48, Cardinals 20
Moody’s Pick: Cowboys 41, Cardinals 31
Walder’s Pick: Cowboys 33, Cardinals 24
FPI Prediction: DAL, 61.1% (by 4.2 points)
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the biggest rivalries and rookie debuts scheduled for Week 9 of the 2025 NFL season?
Week 9 features several high-profile matchups, including the highly anticipated 10th career meeting between Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen when the Kansas City Chiefs visit the Buffalo Bills. This intense rivalry between two of the league’s top young quarterbacks consistently delivers thrilling games. Additionally, the New Orleans Saints will debut rookie quarterback Tyler Shough in his first regular-season start against the Los Angeles Rams, adding a significant storyline to the late afternoon slate.
Where can I find expert betting picks and fantasy football advice for Week 9 games?
This guide offers comprehensive expert insights for Week 9 NFL action. Each game preview includes betting nuggets from ESPN Research and specific final score predictions from analysts like Pamela Maldonado, Eric Moody, and Seth Walder. For fantasy managers, Eric Moody provides targeted “fantasy nuggets” for key players in favorable matchups, often referencing the Week 9 fantasy rankings to help optimize your lineup decisions. Look for the “Fantasy & Betting Angles” section under each game.
Which matchups in Week 9 present the most significant injury challenges for teams?
Several teams face critical injury concerns this Week 9 NFL weekend. The Denver Broncos will be without star cornerback Pat Surtain II, profoundly impacting their man-coverage scheme against the Texans. The Steelers’ secondary is depleted with S DeShon Elliott out and a new acquisition needing to integrate. The Giants’ offense must adapt to the season-ending injury of rookie RB Cam Skattebo. Furthermore, the Chiefs’ Kareem Hunt is expected to step up due to Isiah Pacheco’s MCL sprain, and the Patriots’ Rhamondre Stevenson’s toe injury could impact their run game and pass protection.
Conclusion: A Critical Juncture for the 2025 NFL Season
Week 9 of the 2025 NFL season is shaping up to be a pivotal point, with numerous teams facing crucial challenges and opportunities. From divisional clashes to high-stakes inter-conference battles, the insights provided here offer a deep dive into every angle of the action. Whether you’re tracking a key injury, analyzing a specific player’s fantasy outlook, or scrutinizing betting trends, this guide equips you with the knowledge to fully appreciate and engage with the games. Don’t miss a moment of this exciting Halloween weekend on the gridiron. What are your bold predictions for Week 9?
