NFL Week 9 Picks: Predicting the Week's Surefire Losers

We've seen our fair share of unexpected results during the 2011 NFL season, but these five picks seem to be good bets in Week 9:

Miami Dolphins (0-7) at Kansas City Chiefs (4-3)

It's always a little risky to count on a team to win the week after an emotional division game, especially on short rest after playing Monday night. Still, it's tough to envision the winless Dolphins going to Arrowhead and leaving with their first win. They played better against the Giants in the first half, but the Dolphins look headed for a two- or three-win season. I don't think they get it in Week 9 in Kansas City. 

Atlanta Falcons (4-3) at Indianapolis Colts (0-8)

The Falcons' bye in Week 8 is followed by another semi-bye against the Colts this weekend. There is so much wrong with Indianapolis right now that there's simply not enough space here to dive into every issue. The Falcons should ride Michael Turner, who's rushed for over 100 yards in back-to-back games, against the Colts porous run defense. Roddy White is a tough matchup for Indy's size-challenged secondary, too. 

Seattle Seahawks (2-5) at Dallas Cowboys (3-4)

What are we to take from the Cowboys' 34-7 loss to the Eagles? Philadelphia played their best game of the year and were firing on all cylinders. We'll give the Cowboys a pass for that big defeat on the road. Welcoming the Seahawks, who have serious issues at quarterback, should help heal those wounds.

San Francisco 49ers (6-1) at Washington Redskins (3-4)

If the Redskins were shutout by the Bills defense, what in the world will happen when they get a visit from Patrick Willis and the 49ers stout unit? It could get ugly for Washington. As long as Alex Smith continues to play efficient football, the 49ers should cruise to a win.

Denver Broncos (2-6) at Oakland Raiders (4-3)

Another week for Carson Palmer in the Raiders offense should give him a sizable edge over Tim Tebow and the Broncos. I can't imagine Tebow is much worse than he was Sunday against the Lions, but you just never know with a player as fundamentally flawed as Tebow currently is. The Raiders defense should lead them to a comfortable victory.