Week 9 of the NFL Season draws to a close tonight as the Cardinals travel to battle the Cowboys. The close of Week 9 marks the mid-way point in the season. Below, I preview the game. But first, let’s look at the leaders for awards in three key categories at the mid-point in the season.

Mid-Season MVP

There are a lot of contenders. What Christian McCaffrey and Jonathan Taylor have done for their teams is beyond impressive. Daniel Jones has brought his career back, too, as the Colts have started 7-2. It’s hard not to lean toward one of the Colts. But, I’m going with Drake Maye. His stats might not blow you away, but he’s been incredible in his second season. He’s making the most of his weapons and has his team at 7-2, tied for the best record in the NFL.

Mid-Season Coach of the Year

I’m torn here. Shane Steichen would be a worth choice. I nearly picked him. What he’s done has been great. But I’m going with Mike Vrabel. The Patriots were one of the worst teams in football the past two years. Now, they’re 7-2 and tied for the best record in the AFC. The schedule has helped, but the Patriots have beaten everyone put in their path—including the Bills. It’s been a great turnaround.

Mid-Season Offensive Rookie of the Year

There are a lot of options here. We’ve seen flashes from Ashton Jeanty, Cam Skattebo, and Omarion Hampton in the backfield. But all have struggled at times or been injured. Tyler Warren has looked like one of the best tight ends in football for a first-place team. He’s a tempting choice, too. But I’m going with Jaxson Dart. I know the Giants are only 2-7. But Dart has looked great in the starting role, and he’s been a lot of fun to watch.

And now, Monday Night Football.

Arizona Cardinals (2-5) at Dallas Cowboys (3-4-1)

The Cardinals started out 2-0. They’ve lost five straight games since. The Cowboys, meanwhile, have been up-and-down all season. The offense has been exceptional. The defense has been awful. So, what will we see Monday night?

For the Cardinals, it’s Jacoby Brissett under center again. He’s a QB2 for me. The backfield is kind of a mess, but Bam Knight is the back I prefer as a flex option. I like Trey McBride as a TE1 and Marvin Harrison, Jr. as a WR2 in this game. It could be high scoring.

For the Cowboys, I like Dak Prescott to bounce back as a QB1. I also like Javonte Williams as an RB2 with some upside. I like CeeDee Lamb as a WR1 and George Pickens as a WR2. Finally, I like Jake Ferguson to bounce back as a low-end TE1.

I’m taking the Cowboys tonight.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.