As NFL fans and fantasy football enthusiasts gear up for another thrilling week of action, one question looms large: Who will find their way into the end zone in Week 9? ESPN’s Mike Clay has the answers, thanks to his meticulous game-by-game projections. Clay’s crystal ball has revealed the top 20 players most likely to score a touchdown this week, giving fans and bettors alike valuable insights into the upcoming slate of games.
The Cream of the Crop
Leading the pack is Kansas City Chiefs running back Kareem Hunt, who boasts a whopping 85% probability of scoring against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Hot on his heels is Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts, with an impressive 84% chance of finding paydirt against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Other notable names in the top five include Los Angeles Rams rookie sensation Kyren Williams (76%), Tennessee Titans workhorse Derrick Henry (70%), and New York Giants star Saquon Barkley (69%). These elite playmakers are primed to make a significant impact for their teams and fantasy owners alike.
Rising Stars and Reliable Veterans
The list also features a mix of up-and-coming stars and established veterans. Detroit Lions rookie Jahmyr Gibbs (62%) and Atlanta Falcons first-year phenom Bijan Robinson (62%) have quickly made their mark in the league, while seasoned pros like Chicago Bears running back David Montgomery (61%) and Arizona Cardinals rusher James Conner (54%) continue to be reliable options near the goal line.
“Touchdown probability is a crucial factor in both real-life and fantasy football,” a source close to Clay revealed. “These projections give fans and managers a competitive edge when making lineup decisions and placing bets.”
– Anonymous source
Wide Receivers in the Mix
While running backs dominate the list, a few wide receivers have also cracked the top 20. Atlanta Falcons sophomore Drake London checks in with a 52% chance to score against the Dallas Cowboys, while Cincinnati Bengals superstar Ja’Marr Chase is close behind at 44% as he prepares to face the Las Vegas Raiders.
Betting Implications
For those looking to place an anytime touchdown bet, Clay’s projections offer valuable guidance. With odds ranging from -280 for Hunt to +160 for Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels, there are plenty of intriguing options for bettors to consider.
“Anytime touchdown bets have become increasingly popular among NFL fans,” a prominent Las Vegas bookmaker noted. “Having access to reliable projections like Clay’s can make all the difference in finding value and making informed wagers.”
– Prominent Las Vegas bookmaker
Fantasy Football Impact
Of course, Clay’s projections are not just valuable for bettors; they also provide crucial information for fantasy football managers. Knowing which players are most likely to find the end zone can help inform start/sit decisions and give teams a much-needed boost in close matchups.
- Use touchdown probability to guide start/sit decisions
- Target players with high odds in DFS lineups
- Consider touchdown potential when making trades
Conclusion
As the NFL season enters its second half, every touchdown becomes increasingly valuable. With Mike Clay’s top 20 touchdown projections for Week 9, fans, bettors, and fantasy managers alike have a powerful tool at their disposal. Will the likes of Kareem Hunt, Jalen Hurts, and Kyren Williams live up to their lofty expectations, or will a surprise contender emerge from the pack? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: The race to the end zone will be as thrilling as ever.
