2025 NFL survivor pool picks Week 9: Welcome to the NFL, Tyler Shough

New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough throws downfield during the fourth quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Caesars Superdome.

Risking a perfect season of survivor picks on an unknown variable wouldn't typically be a wise decision -- but that's exactly what I plan to do in Week 9.

Coming off an easy Week 8 win thanks to the Chiefs steamrolling the Commanders, I'm rolling with a matchup that could be just as lopsided between the Los Angeles Rams and New Orleans Saints depending on how good (or not good) rookie quarterback Tyler Shough is in his first career start.

Given the supporting cast around him, it honestly may not matter. But I'm willing to bet Shough isn't ready to rise to the occasion either.

Which team is the best Survivor Pool pick for Week 9?

Pick: Rams

The choice here really isn't all that deep. If Shough couldn't win the starting QB job over Spencer Rattler, who led the Saints to a 1-7 record through eight starts, why would I expect Shough to fare any better in his first crack? Especially when he's getting that start on the road against the 5-2 Rams coming out of a bye week where they had ample time to prepare for the Saints. Did I mention the Rams are second in the NFL in sacks and allow the third-fewest points per game? Yeah, I don't like N.O.'s chances at all.

Alternatives: Chargers, Packers, Patriots, Lions

Previous picks

Week 1: Broncos (W)

Week 2: Cardinals (W)

Week 3: Buccaneers (W)

Week 4: Bills (W)

Week 5: Lions (W)

Week 6: Packers (W)

Week 7: Patriots (W)

Week 8: Chiefs (W)

This article originally appeared on For The Win: 2025 NFL survivor pool picks Week 9: Welcome to the NFL, Tyler Shough

Reporting by Prince J. Grimes, For The Win / For The Win