As the NFL enters Week 10, several intriguing matchups are on the horizon, highlighted by a notable NFC West showdown. The New York Jets made headlines during the trade deadline, while the Seattle Seahawks have strengthened their roster. Meanwhile, the San Francisco 49ers prepare to face the Los Angeles Rams.
In the AFC, former Denver Broncos assistant general manager Darren Mougey has orchestrated a significant move at the trade deadline, securing two first-round picks for 2026 and three for 2027. The Jets, now in a rebuilding phase, have decided to trade away star players Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams, a bold gamble that will shape their future.
Over in Baltimore, the Baltimore Ravens stand at 3-5, a record affected by Lamar Jackson“s absence for three games. However, Jackson”s return has invigorated the team, boasting a remarkable 14-1 touchdown-to-interception ratio and a 136.7 quarterback rating so far this season. With two consecutive victories and a favorable schedule ahead, the Ravens are a team to watch in the AFC North.
The Los Angeles Chargers faced a setback with the season-ending injury of Joe Alt, which leaves them without both Alt and Rashawn Slater, two key players expected to anchor their offensive line. As the Chargers aim to maintain their 6-3 record in the competitive AFC West, they will square off against the 5-3 Pittsburgh Steelers in a game that could be pivotal for both teams.
In the NFC, the Green Bay Packers are struggling after a disheartening loss to the Carolina Panthers, following a strong win against the Steelers. They now face a crucial matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles, a game that could influence playoff seeding in the NFC.
The Seattle Seahawks are currently tied for the top spot in the NFC West at 6-2 and appear to be among the most well-rounded teams in the league. They added wide receiver Rashid Shaheed at the trade deadline, who is expected to quickly adapt under offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, having coached him previously in New Orleans. The Seahawks have also demonstrated strong performance on the road, holding an impressive 11-1 record under head coach Mike Macdonald.
In Washington, the Washington Commanders continue to struggle, having lost four straight games, including a recent blowout against Seattle. Quarterback Jayden Daniels is currently dealing with an elbow injury, but the team has not yet placed him on injured reserve.
Game of the Week: Rams vs. 49ers
The highlight of the week features the Los Angeles Rams taking on the San Francisco 49ers. The Rams, with a record of 6-2, are seen as one of the top teams in the NFC, trailing the 49ers by only half a game. San Francisco previously secured a narrow victory over Los Angeles, and a win in this matchup would significantly boost their chances for the division title. This contest is also critical for the Rams, who will face tough opponents in Seattle and Tampa Bay following this game.
As of late, the Rams have been in strong form, having not allowed more than 10 points in their last three games. They enter this contest as 4.5-point favorites.
Lock of the Week: Bills at Dolphins
The Buffalo Bills are set to face the struggling Miami Dolphins following a successful week leading up to the trade deadline. Despite not acquiring a new receiver, the Bills are coming off a strong performance against the Kansas City Chiefs and boast a potent ground game led by James Cook. With an average of 108.4 yards per game, Cook is a key asset for Buffalo, which currently leads the NFL in total yards and scoring.
Buffalo is favored by 9.5 points in this matchup, showcasing their confidence against the Dolphins, who sit at 2-7 this season.
Upset of the Week: Patriots at Buccaneers
The New England Patriots are looking to continue their impressive turnaround under coach Mike Vrabel, having shifted from a 4-13 record last season to a six-game winning streak, averaging 29.5 points during this stretch. They will face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who are also in good form at 6-2. This matchup, dubbed the “Tom Brady Bowl,” presents a significant challenge for both teams as they look to solidify their playoff aspirations.
The Buccaneers are favored by 2.5 points at home, but the Patriots” recent performance suggests this could be a tightly contested game.
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