We’re diving into the latter half of the 2024 NFL season.

With nine weeks already in the books, the season has reached its midpoint. The playoff picture remains murky, and plenty of teams still have chances to elevate their standings and push towards the postseason. The thrilling matchup on Thursday night between the Cincinnati Bengals and Baltimore Ravens suggests that the upcoming two months will be filled with exciting contests.

With that in mind, here are some daring predictions for the NFL Week 10 games from various writers and editors at YSL News Sports:

Christian McCaffrey Will Score 2 TDs and Have More Receiving Yards Than Rushing Yards

In his highly anticipated 2024 debut for the 49ers against Tampa Bay, Christian McCaffrey is set to make a big impact. Though Jordan Mason did admirably as a backup (averaging 5.3 yards per carry over 685 yards), the NFL’s current Offensive Player of the Year is ready to show just how versatile he can be as a backfield threat. The 49ers have desperately needed McCaffrey’s presence in the passing game, especially given the injuries among their receivers. As he recovers from his Achilles injury, you can expect McCaffrey to boost Brock Purdy’s passing stats, given that he runs routes like a top receiver and creates opportunities for other players. I foresee McCaffrey scoring twice on Sunday and racking up over 100 total yards, with more than half of that coming from receptions.

— Jarrett Bell

DeAndre Hopkins Will Break 100 Receiving Yards for the First Time This Season

DeAndre Hopkins is set to solidify his role as the Chiefs’ primary wide receiver.

After not surpassing 100 receiving yards since Week 14 of last year, Hopkins is expected to exceed the century mark in his second home game in Kansas City against a tough Denver pass defense, led by cornerback Pat Surtain II. I predict that Hopkins will achieve over 100 receiving yards and score one touchdown, marking three touchdowns in his first three games with the Chiefs. His performance will help the Chiefs secure a 9-0 record, becoming just the fifth team in history to start their championship defense with nine straight wins. Additionally, Patrick Mahomes will continue to dominate against AFC West opponents, improving his record to 33-5 against division rivals.

– Tyler Dragon

Blowouts Expected in Uneven Matchups

The NFL has enjoyed a run filled with close games lately, with 75 contests decided by seven points or fewer. This week may see that trend come to an end, as several matchups appear quite one-sided. Five of my Week 10 selections indicate margins of at least 21 points. The game between the Jacksonville Jaguars and Minnesota Vikings could be particularly lopsided, especially with quarterback Trevor Lawrence likely out due to a shoulder injury. Other teams facing potential significant losses include the New Orleans Saints (hosting the Atlanta Falcons), Denver Broncos (at Kansas City Chiefs), Tennessee Titans (visiting the Los Angeles Chargers), and Dallas Cowboys (at Philadelphia Eagles).

— Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz