2020 NFL picks, score predictions for Week 9

Houston Texans (1-6) at Jacksonville Jaguars (1-6)

Sunday, November 8, 1PM ET

At this point, it’s looking like neither of these teams have much to play for. They can’t seem to put together a competent effort consistently, which is why they both sit at 1-6. As luck would have it, at least one has to come away with the win in Week 9.

Since I’m making picks, I’m rolling with the Houston Texans in this divisional matchup. They’ve been the more complete team so far in 2020 despite their embarrassing record and will have the edge under center with Deshaun Watson facing off against the Jacksonville Jaguars’ backup quarterback.

Gardner Minshew has already been ruled out for Week 9, likely as a result of both injury and underwhelming play. That means either Mike Glennon or Jake Luton will get the start. Although the Houston defense is far from reliable, I don’t see either of those arms picking them apart and outscoring Watson on Sunday.

It’s been a long season for both of these squads, and it’s about to get a bit longer for one of them. The Jaguars are a mess right now, and I don’t see them coming away with a W in a creampuff matchup with the Texans. Whether or not you’re a fan of these teams, you may be better off tuning into a different game in Week 9.

Prediction: Texans win 23-14