NFL Week 9 underrated games: An international game, two AFC vs. NFC showdowns to add to your watch list

Week 9 of the 2026 season arrives with the trade deadline looming—teams have until Nov. 10 at 4 p.m. ET to sell or add. While several matchups grab attention, three “underrated” games are highlighted for viewers. The international slate features Bengals vs. Falcons on Sunday, Nov. 8 at 9:30 a.m. ET on NFL Network. Quarterbacks come off extremes: Atlanta’s Michael Penix threw a career-high four interceptions in a 16-0 loss to the Buccaneers, while Cincinnati’s Joe Burrow threw five TD passes and won in overtime against the Titans. The focus is Atlanta’s defense versus Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase, as Cincinnati leads the league with 288.4 passing yards per game. Broncos vs. Panthers follows at 1 p.m. ET on CBS/Paramount+ as Denver tries to extend a four-game win streak. The list also includes Buccaneers vs. Bears later Sunday on NBC, though the preview cuts off mid-sentence.