The leaves are changing. Fall colors are at their peak in my neck of the woods. But the world really isn’t changing, is it? It’s hard to stay positive in a world with so much negativity and hatred. I know there’s still good out there, as I’ve seen it. Also, why get so deep right now? Why not just share my Week 9 Football Betting Picks instead?

I don’t have a clear answer to that question.

There’s just a lot on my mind these days – and it’s not like there are many people actually reading this. Not like the old days. I’m not a guy that’s heavy into politics, but I do think it’s a joke that people treat their party like their favorite sports team. This isn’t Eagles-Cowboys, guys. It’s not Ohio State-Michigan, fam. Find the views of a candidate and pick what best suits your needs. Oh, right… they don’t share their views. They just spread lies and put brochures in my mailbox daily. How many trees did we cut down for all that mudslinging? Instead, I see good people in pain due to a lack of change on simple fixes (on both sides – nothing but bickering and finger pointing). But I digress and come back to the leaves changing.

Staring at trees, specifically.

When encountering stress, a former co-worker of mine always encouraged me to go outside and stare at a tree. It became a running joke in our circle, but if you google it, it’s encouraged – and you know what? It actually works.

Staring at trees is “a scientifically backed method to reset your brain and improve your physical health”. It’s noted to be “gentle engagement”, a way to be in nature, and to clear your mind. These days, I’m doing it almost daily, and it’s one of the few things keeping me sane. Well, that and good craft beer. OK, fine… sports as well.

There’s a 13-minute YouTube video on the scientific concept of staring at trees, but this isn’t school. I won’t subject you to that. Instead, I’ll include something with more energy, specifically a live version of the song “Trees”, by Twenty One Pilots.

Alright, let’s get on with this week’s picks, shall we?

Contest Reminder

This is a season long contest with potential prizes going out to our winners, so if you want to join in on the fun, drop a comment here or over at the land of the SportsChump.  We take our top five bets of the week against the spread (in both the NFL and College Football). If you beat us and go undefeated, that leads to fun prizes and/or heaps of praise on our websites.

With that said, here are our TOP FIVE picks for the week, including my Week 9 Football Betting Picks. The list is ranked in order of confidence, from 50 “dollars” down to $10.

Week 9 Football Betting Picks – The Staring at Trees Edition

KP’s Picks: The Wife Hates/Loves Sports

$50: Detroit Lions (-6.5) at Miami Dolphins

The Dolphins are a young and scrappy bunch. Miami has players that will likely be special in a few years. For now, growing pains! Over the last three weeks, the Dolphins have their first win and two one-score losses to the Bengals and Patriots. So, I get this line – I do! Statistically, though… you gotta go with it. Detroit is a +3 in turnover differential, while Miami is a -3. The Lions lead the NFL in total offense, averaging 395.4 ypg. Miami is just out of the bottom five. Defensively, yes… the Lions rank in the bottom five in yards allowed, and you can move the ball on them. But do we think Miami’s weapons can hang with the likes of Amon-Ra, Gibbs, and Goff, among others? Not in a one-score game situation! Lions cover.

$40: Cleveland Browns at New Orleans Saints (-2.5)

Deshaun Watson is in concussion protocol, which means Shedeur Sanders will start for Cleveland this weekend. Sanders has seen limited play time in 2026, completing just three passes for two yards over three games. Three-and-two – that’s no typo! Consider this an opportunity. The New Orleans offense has been inconsistent over the last month, but they have key pieces that can move the ball (and home field). The Saints rank in the bottom five in yards allowed, but again, it’s Shedeur Sanders. Do we trust him? Offensively, both teams rank in the bottom ten in yards gained. Sanders has an opportunity to show what he’s made of, but I trust Olave and Shough more (among others) playing at home. Saints cover.

$30: Penn State Nittany Lions (+2.5) at Washington Huskies

As I’ve mentioned in previous weeks, Washington (135th in rushing offense – 95.0 ypg) has a rash of injuries in the RB/OL room. Only Hawaii, California, and Sam Houston State rank lower. Hello, one-dimensional offense! On the flip side, Penn State’s pass defense features breakout stars like Audavion Collins. The Nittany Lions rank 3rd in pass defense, allowing just 141.4 yards through the air. PSU’s defense has 9 INT’s and just 6 TD’s allowed in eight games. Offensively, Penn State had it’s most effective game in 2026 Big Ten play last week. RB Cam Wallace was incredible, rushing for 135 yards. Bonus: WR Chase Sowell appears ready to return from a one-game absence. Despite the cross-country travel, Penn State covers.

$20: Michigan State Spartans (+14.5) at Michigan Wolverines

Both offenses have struggled. Michigan ranks 114th in scoring offense, while Sparty is 122nd. The Wolverines have scored 28 or more points just once this season (a 52-17 win over UTEP in September). Meanwhile, Michigan State has been held under 14 points in half of their games. Michigan has won four straight in the series, with the last two being by fewer than two TD’s (where the line is hovering). These schools severely dislike each other and the rivalry game is always heated. Despite their struggles, Michigan State will be fired up and ready to play. As sluggish as both offenses have been, I have a hard time seeing either team pull away (or put up a lot of points). Give me the Spartans and the points.

$10: Oregon Ducks (+8) at Ohio State Buckeyes

Last week, I took the Buckeyes, thinking the talent in the org and the QB room would settle in with a week’s practice. It didn’t and the offense isn’t the same without Julian Sayin. Luke Fahey (55% completion percentage last week) struggled facing a very vulnerable USC defense. On the flip side, Oregon has had similar injuries and challenges with its QB play. But the Ducks scored 41 points at USC. Oregon will likely struggle on the road against Ohio State’s loaded defense. Both teams have been a disappointment this season (and need this win badly). Plain and simple, I don’t see either team pulling away. Therefore, give me Oregon and the points.

 

On the Outside Looking In (Others I Considered):

  • New Mexico Lobos (-9.5) at Nevada Wolfpack – Lobos are ranked and 7-1 on the season
  • North Carolina Tar Heels (-6.5) at UConn Huskies – Belichick’s crew has played better as of late
  • BYU Cougars (+5.5) at Utah Utes – Battle of two top ten teams should be fun
  • Iowa Hawkeyes at Northwestern Wildcats (-2.5) – The new Ryan Field is a tough place to play
  • Georgia Bulldogs (-3.5) at Ole Miss Rebels – Georgia looking to sneak back to top of polls
  • Miami Hurricanes (+7.5) at Notre Dame Fighting Irish – Can Miami hang around without Malachi Toney?
  • New York Jets at Kansas City Chiefs (-9.5) – Breece Hall appears ready to return for the Jets
  • Buffalo Bills (-3.5) at Minnesota Vikings – Carson Wentz getting the start for Minnesota

 

Week 9 Football Betting Picks: SportsChump

$50 on Dallas Cowboys (Over 28 ½ points)

I made the gross mistake of betting on the Cowboys to cover last week.  Some people never learn.  Dallas is currently 3-4-1 ATS but should admittedly be 4-3-1 had they not allowed the Cardinals to win in overtime after being down ten points with three minutes left.  At least they can still light up a scoreboard, right?  The perennially dysfunctional Cowboys are scoring over 27 points per game which is seventh best in the league.  Their defense, however, can’t be trusted.  Judging by their last three-and-out possession in overtime, I’m not sure their offense can be either.  This Sunday is a perfect get right spot for Big D against lowly I. 

If it weren’t for the Chargers, the Colts would be running away with the NFL’s most disappointing team award.  This game is on the road, which means the Cowboys won’t have to listen to their hometown fans booing them.  As tempting as it is to lay the six here (I’m not touching it), it’s safe to assume the Cowboys will simplify their offense with the run game and go back to getting Cee Dee Lamb the ball.  The Colts look like they’ve given up, as judged by their 42-7 loss to Jacksonville.  Their players are playing just not to get hurt, which is never a good sign.  Indy is also allowing 28 points a game which is third worst in the league.  Considering Dallas knows they can’t stop anyone, nor can Indy, give me Dallas to score over 28 ½ points.  And if they can’t, I promise not to include them in any more wagers for the rest of the season.

$40 on Javonte Williams/Kenneth Walker Any Time TD Parlay (-115)

Speaking of getting right, let’s put two outcomes together and hope for the best.  I know, I know.  I opened last week’s predictions with a lecture on how not to parlay, or at least to keep it to a minimum, but this one is too juicy.  And it comes out to even money.  In line with my thinking that Dallas will return to the basics, I fully expect Javonte Williams to get the ball plenty.  The sure-handed running back (did I just jinx him?) ranks in the top ten in rushing attempts, as he should.  Considering Dak Prescott’s inconsistencies, Williams should be getting the ball more.  I think he will this weekend to the point of reaching the end zone. 

Similarly, Offensive Player of the Year candidate Kenneth Walker has been on a cold streak.  After starting 6-0, the Chiefs dropped their last two on the road, at Seattle and at Denver, both easy places to lose.  They were Walker’s worst two performances of the season.  Sunday, the Chiefs return home to face the feisty but beatable Jets.  Like Dallas with Williams, I like KC to get Walker back into a rhythm.  That will also include scoring a touchdown.  An anytime Williams touchdown parlayed with an anytime Walker touchdown comes back -115… and I love it.

$30 on Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Chicago Bears (-6)

I really, really hate to do this but I’m going against my team.  The Buccaneers have been winning this season with smoke and mirrors.  I take that back.  That last statement was disrespectful to Tampa Bay’s defense which is once again one of the best in the league.  But, man, that offense is hard to watch.  Bucky Irving has been running like a man possessed and that’s a good thing because Baker Mayfield has thrown for 64 yards in his last two games.  That’s like a single pass for Joe Burrow.  The Bucs travel to Chicago Sunday night to play the hottest team in the league. 

Calling the Bears a Super Bowl contender is the most common take on the internet and why not?  They have a great young quarterback, a solid running game, a potentially explosive receiving corps and a top ten defense.  While both teams are on a heater (if you want to call Tampa’s two-game winning streak a heater), Chicago is the more complete team.  At least they have people that can catch a football.  Defensively, Chicago will force Baker to prove he and his recently repaired thumb better can complete a pass for the first time in two weeks.  Chicago man-handled Seattle last Monday night, capitalizing on every mistake they forced Seattle into.  I expect more of the same in a game that Bucs fans might need to have a drink for.  Bears cover the six.

$20 on New York Giants at Philadelphia Eagles (+ 3 ½)

Remember back when Rick Pitino coached the Boston Celtics.  This was long after their 1980s heyday and Larry Bird had retired.  The team was bad.  When a reporter asked Pitino about Boston’s woes, Pitino quipped “Larry Bird is not walking through that door.”  Well, guess who just walked through the Philadelphia Eagles door.  Jalen Hurts, that’s who.  Not to play, but to inspire.  Weeks ago, Hurts was initially diagnosed with blood clots in his calves that somehow were later found in his lungs.  Time for a second opinion, doc.  While we all wonder whether he’ll ever return to the field of play, what he did do was walk back into the Eagles facility, which is a good sign.  Who knows whether he’ll be on the sidelines this weekend with a clipboard and some rah rah. 

This week, the Giants come into town and are all the rave.  They went from benching and releasing running backs with their head coach calling them out to being happy campers in the locker room a week later.  They also somehow stole JJ McCarthy away from the Minnesota Vikings for pennies on the dollar.  Ever since, head coach John Harbaugh has been all smiles.  We’ll see how long those smiles last when he faces an Eagles team they’re favored against, but who has not yet given up on the season.  The Eagles are horrible against the spread but that’s only because so much was expected of this team.  These days, Vegas expects Philly to roll over and I’m not entirely sure that’s about to happen just yet.  I’ll take Eagles plus the 3 ½ at home.

$10 on Oregon Ducks at Ohio State Buckeyes (-6)

The college football playoff without the Ohio State Buckeyes might be pleasing to some but it’d be like watching an episode of friends without Chandler in it.  There’s something missing.  The Buckeyes, by virtue of the always competitive state of their program, are on the verge of missing the post-season.  With losses at Texas and USC, the Buckeyes have two rare losses on their schedule midway through their season, which is completely unlike them.  This week, they and their back up quarterback face another struggling team with their back up quarterback: the Oregon Ducks. 

The Duck usually wait until the post-season to crap all over themselves but this season, they’ve decided to not make us wait.  While still somehow ranked, they’ve already lost to Oklahoma State and Illinois.  While they got back on track beating a ranked Northwestern team at home, doing that and winning in Columbus are two totally different animals.   I like the Buckeyes to get back on track.  This line opened at six and quickly moved to over a touchdown, as it should have.  Give me the Bucks to beat the Ducks by six.

 

Week 9 Football Betting Picks: Special Guest TJ

In the words of Dak Prescott: YEAH HERE WE GOOOOOO!!

  • 5 Rams -5.5 over Commanders
  • 4 Colts +6 over Cowboys (Colts ML plus over will get you paid)
  • 3 Broncos -3 over Panthers (Broncos are my SB pick)
  • 2 Lions -7 over Dolphins
  • 1 Browns +1.5 over Saints

 

Last Week’s Recap: THE WIFE (Special Guest for Week 8)

  • $50: Navy Midshipmen (+30.5) at Notre Dame Fighting Irish – CORRECT
  • $40: Chicago Bears at Seattle Seahawks (-3) – INCORRECT
  • 30: Wisconsin Badgers (+3.5) at Iowa Hawkeyes – INCORRECT
  • $20: Baltimore Ravens at Buffalo Bills (-3) – CORRECT
  • $10: Purdue Boilermakers (+9.5) at Penn State Nittany Lions – INCORRECT
  • 2-3 (-$10)

Last Week’s Recap: Kevin Paul

  • $50: New England Patriots (-6.5) at Miami Dolphins – INCORRECT
  • $40: Las Vegas Raiders (+1.5) at New York Jets – CORRECT
  • $30: Purdue Boilermakers at Penn State Nittany Lions (-7.5) – CORRECT
  • $20: Minnesota Golden Gophers (+20.5) at Indiana Hoosiers – CORRECT
  • $10: Ohio State Buckeyes (-6.5) at USC Trojans – INCORRECT

Season Stats for Kevin Paul at TWHS (Top Five Only)

  • NFL: 6-12 (-$200)
  • CFB: 12-10 ($0)
  • Overall: 18-22 (-$200)

Season Stats for Kevin Paul at TWHS (By Confidence)

  • $50: 3-5
  • $40: 4-4
  • $30: 2-6
  • $20: 4-4
  • $10: 5-3

Week-by-Week for Kevin Paul and TWHS (Top Five Only)

  • Week 01: NFL: 1-1 (-$20) | CFB 2-1 (-$10) | Week: 3-2 (-$30) | Overall: 3-2 (-$30)
  • Week 02: NFL: 0-2 (-$80) | CFB 2-1 ($30) | Week: 2-3 (-$50) | Overall: 5-5 (-$80)
  • Week 03: NFL: 1-1 ($30) | CFB 2-1 ($20) | Week: 3-2 ($50) | Overall: 8-7 (-$30)
  • Week 04: NFL: 0-2 (-$80) | CFB 1-2 (-$30) | Week: 1-4 (-$110) | Overall: 9-11 (-$140)
  • Week 05: NFL: 0-2 (-$30) | CFB 0-3 (-$120) | Week: 0-5 (-$150) | Overall: 9-16 (-$290)
  • Week 06: NFL: 1-2 (-$10) | CFB 2-0 ($60) | Week: 3-2 ($50) | Overall: 12-18 (-$240)
  • Week 07: NFL: 2-1 ($0) | CFB 1-1 ($10) | Week: 3-2 ($10) | Overall: 15-20 (-$230)
  • Week 08: NFL: 1-1 (-$10) | CFB 2-1 ($40) | Week: 3-2 ($30) | Overall: 18-22 (-$200)

 

Chime in with your top picks for the week. Thank you for visiting The Wife Hates/Loves Sports!

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