The NFL saw a pivotal weekend of action as several teams with two losses demonstrated their championship aspirations. The Lions, Broncos, Steelers, and Bears all extended their winning streaks to at least three games following crucial Week 9 victories.
Week 9 Highlights
The Buffalo Bills maintained their top position at 6-1 after defeating the Baltimore Ravens 36-10. Despite an early injury to Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, the Bills' offense found its rhythm in the second half, with Josh Allen contributing two passing touchdowns and one rushing touchdown.
The San Francisco 49ers, also 6-1, had a bye week. A reported trade for Jauan Jennings did not materialize, but the team anticipates the potential return of several key players, including Mike Evans and Nick Bosa, after the break. Brock Purdy has thrown 15 touchdowns against four interceptions this season.
The Minnesota Vikings suffered their first loss since November 2025, falling 19-15 to the Lions. Their typically stingy defense conceded a game-winning 69-yard touchdown drive in the fourth quarter.
The Denver Broncos climbed to 6-2 with a dramatic 28-24 comeback victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. Trailing by 11 points in the fourth quarter, the Broncos scored two touchdowns to secure their fourth consecutive win. A crucial false start penalty against the Chiefs on the final play allowed the Broncos to sack Patrick Mahomes and seal the win.
The Chicago Bears improved to 6-2 with a decisive 34-17 road win against the Seattle Seahawks. D'Andre Swift scored three short-yardage touchdowns, and Caleb Williams provided 247 passing yards. Jeffery Simmons made an immediate impact in his Bears debut with six tackles and a sack.
Shifting Tiers
In Kansas City, the Chiefs dropped to 6-2 after their loss to the Broncos. Patrick Mahomes threw for three touchdowns but suffered a rare defeat when holding a significant fourth-quarter lead. Kicker Harrison Butker missed a late field goal that could have extended their lead.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are 6-2 after a 27-6 victory over the Cleveland Browns, solidifying their position atop the AFC North. Jaylen Warren rushed for a career-high 143 yards on his 28th birthday. The Steelers' defense recorded eight sacks, led by T.J. Watt's two.
The Cincinnati Bengals moved to 5-2 following an overtime thriller against the Tennessee Titans. Joe Burrow threw five touchdown passes and ran for the game-winning score in a 43-36 win, overcoming three interceptions. Tee Higgins and Ja'Marr Chase combined for 23 catches and 296 yards.
The Jacksonville Jaguars are 5-2 after a dominant 42-7 performance against the Indianapolis Colts. Trevor Lawrence orchestrated a 98-yard touchdown drive early in the game, and the defense limited Jonathan Taylor to 23 rushing yards.
The Detroit Lions also stand at 5-2 after outlasting the Vikings with Jahmyr Gibbs rushing for 157 yards on 23 carries. Jared Goff connected with Jameson Williams for the go-ahead touchdown. The team is focused on linebacker Jack Campbell, who suffered a neck injury and remains hospitalized.
Other teams saw mixed results. The New York Giants benefited from a bye week and the Dallas Cowboys' recent struggles, strengthening their position in the NFC East. The Jets fell to 2-6 after a 38-33 loss to the Raiders, becoming only the second NFL team since 2000 to lose after scoring on their first six possessions.