Athlon Sports' exclusive metric that combines NFL teams' efficiency in the red zone on both offense and defense — continues to get stronger. The top nine teams in red zone plus/minus going into Week 9 are either in first or second place in their division — and all would be in the playoffs if the season ended today.

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud rips pass to tight end Dalton Schultz for a 47-yard catch and run into the red zone.

With his team scoring TDs in the Red Zone less than half of the time, Chicago Bears' offensive coordinator Declan Doyle admits to not having a 'magic answer.'

Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams emphasized the team needing to improve their offensive success in the red zone.

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb corrals a 15-yard pass from quarterback Dak Prescott. Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens snags a 16-yard pass from quarterback Dak Prescott. Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Walter Nolen trips up Dallas Cowboys running back Javonte Williams for a loss of 2 yards.

Athlon Sports’ exclusive metric that combines NFL teams’ efficiency in the red zone on both offense and defense — there is a growing correlation between the plus-minus numbers and win-loss records. For the first time this season,

"That's been our issue," Vrabel said, as the Patriots have allowed 15 touchdowns in 20 opponent trips inside the red zone (75%), worst in the NFL. "They made some good plays down there, but we've got to be better in the red zone."

Here are 3 plus-money predictions and best bets for Week 9 of the NFL season, including a pick involving Xavier Worthy.

Still, the NFL now faces a decision regarding Bishop’s hit on Kelce. Typically, the league fines players up to $17,389 for a first violation involving a hit on a defenseless player, with the amount increasing to $23,186 for a second offense in the same season.

The Packers went 1-for-5 scoring touchdowns in the red zone and had three trips without points, leading to a stunning loss to the Panthers.