A few crucial matchups with important implications for the stretch run will take place during Week 9 of the NFL season.
In Carolina, the 5-3 Panthers will host the 4-3 Atlanta Falcons. The winner has a chance to finish the day in first place if the 5-2 New Orleans Saints lose to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (although the Saints are favored by a touchdown).
In Green Bay, the 3-4 Detroit Lions and the 4-3 Packers are just trying to stay in the NFC North race. The winner will inch closer to the 6-2 Minnesota Vikings, while the loser will have a lot of catching up to do.