NFL Week 9 Picks: 3 Favorites to Stay Away From

When looking at favorites, don't get lost in the spread. Not every game is going to turn out as is.

That is, especially in a season where we're beginning to gradually see a shift of new teams entering the playoff discussion. It's better to be safe than sorry.

Here are three favorites to avoid in Week 9 of the NFL season.

Click the link for a full view of the Week 9 NFL line.

Dallas Cowboys, minus-11.5 (vs. Seattle Seahawks)

Stay away from the Cowboys because of their inconsistency. On paper, Dallas should wipe the Seahawks off the field. However, until Big D can get it together for more than just one week, don't bet on them.

Also, Seattle has proven they can win on the road, as was evident when they defeated the Giants in New York. The Seahawks hung with the 49ers in San Francisco, as well.

Dallas hasn't proven anything yet, other than that they're a flaky team who hasn't found their identity.

Take the Seahawks and the points.

Oakland Raiders, minus-8 (vs. Denver Broncos)

There's multiple reasons to stay away from Oakland in Week 9. RB Darren McFadden may be out and the Broncos have improved defensively, despite Detroit thumping them.

Sure, QB Carson Palmer may have had more time to prepare. He's also been reunited with WR and former Bengals teammate T.J. Houshmandzadeh. However, don't jump the gun on the Raiders too soon, otherwise you're at risk.

As for Denver, they have a much improved rushing attack and average 125 yards per game. Meanwhile, the Raiders allow just under 120. It's going to be a low-scoring game, and that means the spread will be covered at the very least. 

Take the Broncos and the points. 

New Orleans Saints, minus-8 (vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers)

After the way New Orleans played last week, picking them over the Buccaneers isn't a guaranteed victory. What's more, Tampa bested them a few weeks ago and Drew Brees appears to be becoming interception-prone again.

In addition, the Saints have yet to lose at home. However, they have trouble starting off fast. Had it not been for a Houston Texans choke-job, New Orleans would have at least one loss at home this season.

Don't discount the Bucs just because it's a road game, either. This is a game where we begin to watch them mature and develop their young players. Even if they lose, it's going to be a barn-burner.

Take the Buccaneers and the points.

Be sure to check out John on Bleacher Report. 

You can follow him on Twitter @ Sportswriter27.