Week 9 of the NFL season brings critical matchups and notable player injuries that impact game dynamics and, crucially, the player prop betting market.
By examining recent injury reports, player performances, and team strategies, we can uncover betting value in three key games: Packers vs. Lions, Bengals vs. Raiders, and Vikings vs. Colts.
NFL Week 9 Injury Report: Top Value Player Prop Targets
Sam Pasco analyses three key matchups in Week 9 and breaks down his best bets.
Game 1: Green Bay Packers vs. Detroit Lions
Overview This NFC North showdown features the surging Detroit Lions, who have been one of the highest-scoring teams, against the injury-riddled Packers. The Lions are slight road favorites, owing to their offensive firepower and strong recent performances. Meanwhile, the Packers are uncertain about starting quarterback Jordan Love, who is questionable with a groin injury.
Injury Impact and Prop Betting Opportunities If Love is limited or replaced by Malik Willis, expect the Packers’ game plan to lean more heavily on the ground game. Tight end Tucker Kraft has been a reliable target recently, with touchdown scores in four of his last five games. With Love potentially less mobile, Kraft’s prop to score an anytime touchdown at +180 is attractive.
On the Lions’ side, tight end Sam LaPorta has become a consistent target for Jared Goff. Given the Packers’ defensive struggles against tight ends, LaPorta’s over on 40.5 receiving yards is appealing. He’s coming off a strong performance and should be featured prominently in the Lions’ passing attack.
Best Bets
- Tucker Kraft Anytime TD
- Sam LaPorta Over 40.5 Receiving Yards
Game 2: Cincinnati Bengals vs. Las Vegas Raiders
Overview The Bengals, who have had a rocky start to the season, face the Raiders, who are struggling to find consistency. Wide receiver Tee Higgins is doubtful for this matchup, pushing players like Ja’Marr Chase and Mike Gesicki into the spotlight for the Bengals. The Bengals’ defense has been porous, allowing points in bunches, which could make for a higher-scoring affair.
Injury Impact and Prop Betting Opportunities With Higgins likely sidelined, Chase will shoulder a heavier load. Chase has been highly productive in recent games, hitting an anytime TD prop in his last three home games. Additionally, Gesicki has become a key receiving option, especially with Higgins out. His over on 29.5 receiving yards has value at -113, given his recent trend of hitting this mark in the last three home games.
Best Bets
- Ja’Marr Chase Anytime TD
- Mike Gesicki Over 29.5 Receiving Yards
Game 3: Minnesota Vikings vs. Indianapolis Colts
Overview The Colts visit the Vikings in a game with playoff implications for both teams. Joe Flacco is set to start for the Colts after Anthony Richardson’s recent struggles. Meanwhile, the Vikings’ offense, led by Sam Darnold, has shown resilience but is aiming to rebound from back-to-back losses. Minnesota’s defense has been aggressive, but they’ve allowed multiple touchdowns in recent games, creating opportunities for Colts receivers.
Injury Impact and Prop Betting Opportunities With Joe Flacco under center, expect targets like Josh Downs to see an increase in usage. His over on 5.5 receptions at even odds (+100) offers value.
The Vikings’ offense has benefited from Justin Jefferson, who draws significant coverage attention. This week, look for TJ Hockenson to make an impact as he makes his season debut. Hockenson has averaged 8.5 targets per game in his last 25 outings and faces a Colts defense that has struggled against tight ends, making his anytime touchdown prop (+150) an intriguing bet.
Best Bets
- Josh Downs Over 5.5 Receptions
- TJ Hockenson Anytime TD
NFL Week 9 Picks Review
The following props offer solid value for this week’s NFL matchups:
- Tucker Kraft Anytime TD
- Sam LaPorta Over 40.5 Receiving Yards
- Ja’Marr Chase Anytime TD
- Mike Gesicki Over 29.5 Receiving Yards
- Josh Downs Over 5.5 Receptions (+100)
- TJ Hockenson Anytime TD (+150)