The Week 8 NFL schedule for the 2024 season is stacked with nice matchups, and we now have you coated with what that you must know heading into the weekend.
Our NFL Nation reporters deliver us the most important keys to each sport, and analytics author Seth Walder makes a daring prediction for every matchup. The ESPN Analysis workforce gives a giant stat to know and a betting nugget for every contest, whereas our Football Power Index (FPI) goes contained in the numbers with a sport projection. Fantasy analyst Eric Moody finds fantasy soccer X components, and three analysts — Kalyn Kahler, Moody and Walder — give us remaining rating picks for each sport. All the pieces you wish to know is right here in a single spot that will help you prepare for a loaded weekend of NFL soccer.
Let’s get into the complete Week 8 slate, together with Miami QB Tua Tagovailoa‘s potential return in opposition to the Cardinals and the Cowboys internet hosting the 49ers. All of it culminates with a “Monday Night time Soccer” matchup between the Giants and the Steelers on ESPN. (Sport occasions are Sunday until in any other case famous.)
Leap to a matchup:
PHI-CIN | BAL-CLE | TEN-DET
ARI-MIA | NYJ-NE | ATL-TB
GB-JAX | IND-HOU | NO-LAC
BUF-SEA | CAR-DEN | KC-LV
CHI-WSH | DAL-SF | NYG-PIT
Thursday: LAR 30, MIN 20
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: CIN -2.5 (47.5 O/U)
Eagles storyline to observe: The Eagles rushed the ball a mixed 81 occasions over the previous two video games — 10 greater than the next-closest workforce — for 385 whole yards (192.5 per sport). RB Saquon Barkley is second to solely the Ravens’ Derrick Henry in speeding yards per sport (109.7) and is coming off a 176-yard efficiency in opposition to his former workforce, the Giants. Cincinnati has yielded 136 speeding yards per sport and has given up the second-most speeding first downs (65). — Tim McManus
Bengals storyline to observe: Cincinnati’s offense is seeking to rebound after a tough couple of weeks. In back-to-back wins, the Bengals have scored touchdowns on 16.7% of their drives, which was half of the workforce’s price from Weeks 1 by means of 5. Philadelphia’s protection ranks tenth in fewest factors allowed per drive. — Ben Child
Stat to know: Since 2022, the Eagles’ A.J. Brown and Bengals’ Ja’Marr Chase are among the many prime 4 receivers in receiving yards after contact. Chase leads with 452; Brown has 394.
Daring prediction: The Bengals will win by greater than seven factors. Cincinnati has by far the very best passing offense on this sport — it ranks fifth in EPA per dropback — and that is crucial side to dominate. Plus, I will want greater than a blowout over the Giants to be satisfied by the Eagles once more. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Bengals QB Joe Burrow. He began the season with 8.0 fantasy factors in Week 1 in opposition to the Patriots. Since then, he has averaged 21.2 fantasy factors per sport. The Eagles’ protection held Daniel Jones to five.9 factors in Week 7 and Deshaun Watson to eight.4 in Week 6, however it’s going to face a harder problem in opposition to Burrow, Chase and Tee Higgins. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Eagles are 8-1 ATS of their previous 9 video games when the unfold closes between plus-3 and minus-3. Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Bengals 24, Eagles 20
Moody’s decide: Eagles 31, Bengals 27
Walder’s decide: Bengals 30, Eagles 21
FPI prediction: PHI, 55.8% (by a median of 1.9 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Eagles’ Barkley silences boobirds in win vs. Giants … Wholesome protection has Bengals feeling optimistic
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: BAL -8 (44.5 O/U)
Ravens storyline to observe: RB Derrick Henry, the NFL’s speeding chief, goes in opposition to a Browns protection that has not allowed a working again to achieve greater than 67 yards this season. Henry has been on a tear with 873 yards speeding, which is his most in his first seven video games of a season over his nine-year profession. However final season, Cleveland held Henry — who was with the Titans — to twenty yards on 11 carries. “I do know [the Browns’] file would not present that, however this protection, they’re bodily, [and] they fly to the ball,” Henry stated. — Jamison Hensley
Browns storyline to observe: Jameis Winston is taking on at quarterback for the Browns rather than the injured Deshaun Watson (Achilles), and the change ought to result in a extra aggressive passing sport. Watson’s 6.9 air yards per try ranked twenty third within the NFL, whereas Winston has averaged 10.1 air yards per try in his profession. That might assist to take advantage of a Ravens protection that has given up a league-high 20 receptions of a minimum of 25 yards this season. — Daniel Oyefusi
Stat to know: Ravens QB Lamar Jackson tied his single-game profession excessive with 5 passing touchdowns in opposition to the Buccaneers on Monday. He wants 4 touchdowns to match the mark he set in 2019 for essentially the most TDs over a two-game span in franchise historical past.
Daring prediction: Winston shall be sacked a minimum of 5 occasions however can even throw two touchdowns. I am betting Cleveland’s incapacity to cope with the blitz wasn’t solely a Watson downside. However on the identical time, the quarterback play ought to enhance with Winston. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Browns TE David Njoku. With Winston stepping in, it is a nice alternative for Njoku and the passing sport. Njoku had a season-high 14 targets and scored 23.6 fantasy factors in opposition to the Bengals in Week 7. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Street favorites are 24-13 ATS this season, together with 16-2 ATS over the previous three weeks. Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Ravens 30, Browns 17
Moody’s decide: Ravens 28, Browns 19
Walder’s decide: Ravens 34, Browns 20
FPI prediction: BAL, 65.2% (by a median of 5.8 factors)
Matchup must-reads: NFL’s finest offense? Jackson, Ravens on tempo to set information … Browns to start out Winston at QB; Dorsey to name performs … Ravens’ Henry can break speeding file, Lamar says … Boos, terrible play and a future unsure: Inside QB Watson’s turbulent 2024 season
0:27
Tyler Fulghum has a stunning decide for Ravens vs. Browns
Tyler Fulghum explains why he is taking the Browns to cowl the unfold of their Week 9 matchup vs. the Ravens.
1 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: DET -11 (44.5 O/U)
Titans storyline to observe: The Titans’ offense will attempt to determine easy methods to develop the success they’ve discovered on early drives to the remainder of the sport. Tennessee has scored 44 of its 106 whole factors this season inside the first three drives. The latter a part of video games has been a battle. “We’re seeing some totally different seems after which we have to have the ability to alter,” offensive coordinator Nick Holz stated. If Tennessee expects to win this week, it will should successfully adapt as the sport goes alongside. — Turron Davenport
Lions storyline to observe: Even with a 5-1 file, the NFC North-leading Lions aren’t taking the 1-5 Titans evenly. Tennessee has received its earlier six video games in opposition to the Lions, and coach Dan Campbell has urged his workforce to not succumb to a possible lure sport. Detroit is getting ready to be with out WR Jameson Williams whereas he serves a two-game suspension for violating the NFL’s performance-enhancing substances coverage. “[The Titans are] giving folks matches, man, and so they’ve had a quick begin in all their video games, and so they simply have not fairly been in a position to shut it out,” Campbell stated. — Eric Woodyard
Stat to know: Lions WR Amon-Ra St. Brown is 11 yards away from reaching 4,000 profession receiving yards. He’ll be part of Calvin Johnson as the one Lions gamers to succeed in the mark inside their first 4 seasons.
Daring prediction: The Titans won’t rating a landing. That is the worst passing offense within the league, in response to EPA per play. Even with out DE Aidan Hutchinson (tibia/fibula), this Detroit protection ought to have the ability to shut down Tennessee. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Lions RB Jahmyr Gibbs. He has had 15 or extra touches in 5 of his previous six video games and scored 16-plus fantasy factors in 5 of these matchups. The Lions are among the many league leaders in RB touches, and that development ought to proceed. They’re double-digit favorites over the Titans, which might result in a heavy dose of Gibbs and David Montgomery. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Titans are 1-5 ATS this season and 0-4 ATS in opposition to groups with successful information. Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Lions 34, Titans 14
Moody’s decide: Lions 38, Titans 17
Walder’s decide: Lions 30, Titans 9
FPI prediction: DET, 72.9% (by a median of 9.3 factors)
Matchup must-reads: What’s subsequent for Titans after buying and selling WR Hopkins, LB Jones? … Lions WR Williams, going through ban for PEDs, has Lions’ belief
1 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: MIA -3.5 (45.5 O/U)
Cardinals storyline to observe: The Cardinals are using a excessive after beating the Chargers on Monday, however there’s an eagerness within the locker room to see if they’ll put all of the items collectively for a second straight win. They’ve alternated losses and wins since Week 4, so some stability within the win column can be welcomed. However with CBs Sean Murphy-Bunting and Max Melton out due to neck accidents, Arizona is perhaps in for a protracted day in opposition to Miami’s dynamic receiving duo of Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. — Josh Weinfuss
Dolphins storyline to observe: QB Tua Tagovailoa is eligible to return for Sunday’s sport and may present a right away spark to the NFL’s worst scoring offense. At the very least, Hill appears to suppose so. The league’s main receiver from a season in the past stated “the band is again” and urged fantasy house owners to start him this week. — Marcel Louis-Jacques
Stat to know: The Dolphins and Cardinals are the one groups within the NFL to have a number of wins after trailing at first of the fourth quarter.
Daring prediction: The groups will mix to attain greater than 60 factors. The Cardinals have one of many worst defenses within the NFL (twenty ninth in EPA per play) and can face a Dolphins offense with Tagovailoa again. On the opposite aspect, Kyler Murray has sneaked as much as fifth in QBR (68.7). — Walder
Accidents: Cardinals | Dolphins
Fantasy X issue: Dolphins RB De’Von Achane. Achane finds himself in an important place in opposition to a Cardinals protection that permits the seventh-most speeding yards per sport to working backs. Count on him to be closely concerned as each a runner and a receiver. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Murray is 18-7-1 ATS in his profession as a highway underdog. Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Cardinals 24, Dolphins 21
Moody’s decide: Dolphins 27, Cardinals 21
Walder’s decide: Cardinals 34, Dolphins 31
FPI prediction: ARI, 51.1% (by a median of 0.5 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Cardinals LB Gardeck tears ACL, to overlook remainder of 2024 … Tua set to apply, eyeing Dolphins return Sunday … Conner delivers on speech, carries Cardinals to MNF win … Tua’s return to area ‘nearly made me cry’ — WR Hill
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: NYJ -7 (40.5 O/U)
Jets storyline to observe: One other week, one other big-name debut. This week, it is DE Haason Reddick, who ended his holdout and doubtless shall be used as a situational rusher. The Jets bolstered their roster the previous two weeks with Reddick and WR Davante Adams, however this sport might come right down to QB Aaron Rodgers. He has six interceptions prior to now three video games, essentially the most in any three-game stretch in his profession. — Wealthy Cimini
Patriots storyline to observe: The Patriots have not been swept by the Jets for the reason that 2000 season, which was Invoice Belichick’s first as head coach. After shedding 24-3 to the Jets in Week 3, the Patriots are vulnerable to having that streak snapped. Rookie QB Drake Maye, who’s making his third profession begin, has been a shiny spot; he can grow to be the primary rookie QB with a minimum of 240 yards passing and two landing passes in his first three begins since 1950. — Mike Reiss
Stat to know: Maye is the fourth Patriots QB to make one in every of his first three profession begins in opposition to the Jets. The earlier three (Mac Jones, Matt Cassel and Scott Zolak) all received.
Daring prediction: Reddick will file a sack in his Jets debut. Granted, go speeding in opposition to the Patriots’ offensive line is taking part in the sport on straightforward mode, nevertheless it ought to assist Reddick shake off any rust he has from his prolonged absence. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Jets RB Breece Hall. The workforce must lean on its playmakers, and Corridor is stepping up. He has had 18 or extra touches and scored 21 or extra fantasy factors in his previous two video games. The Patriots’ protection permits the third-most fantasy factors per sport to working backs. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Patriots are 0-5 ATS of their previous 5 video games. Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Jets 24, Patriots 20
Moody’s decide: Jets 23, Patriots 16
Walder’s decide: Jets 26, Patriots 10
FPI prediction: NYJ, 71.2% (by a median of 8.3 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Adams: Speech my approach of bringing new ‘swag and tradition’ to Jets … Mayo: Patriots performed comfortable, however he believes they’ll flip it round
9:10
The place has it gone unsuitable for the Jets?
Stephen A. Smith, Kimberley A. Martin and Dan Orlovsky go in depth on the Jets 2024 struggles.
1 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: ATL -2.5 (46.5 O/U)
Falcons storyline to observe: The Falcons’ largest albatross remains to be their go rush, however in addition they have not been superb in opposition to the run, particularly with ILBs Nate Landman (shoulder) and Troy Andersen (knee) each lacking time. Atlanta is twenty eighth within the league in run cease win price (28.1%). In the meantime, the Buccaneers are ninth within the NFL in run block win price (73.1%), opening up holes for RBs Bucky Irving, Rachaad White and Sean Tucker, or what Falcons coach Raheem Morris has known as a “three-headed monster.” — Marc Raimondi
Buccaneers storyline to observe: It is a doomsday state of affairs for the Bucs. Tampa Bay is down its two star broad receivers Mike Evans (hamstring) and Chris Godwin (ankle), in what looks like a must-win sport for the NFC South lead after dropping a Week 5 heartbreaker to Atlanta. QB Baker Mayfield and the bottom sport want a near-perfect effort, whereas the protection must shore up the center of the sphere and lower down on missed tackles. — Jenna Laine
Stat to know: The Falcons want to begin 4-0 or higher of their division for the third time since realignment in 2002. They went 4-0 in 2010 and 5-0 in 2015.
Daring prediction: Falcons RB Bijan Robinson will rush for over 100 yards. Nobody makes use of extra outdoors zone runs than Atlanta (77%), and the Bucs are permitting 5.4 yards per carry to outdoors zone runs, the third most within the league. — Walder
Accidents: Falcons | Buccaneers
Fantasy X issue: Buccaneers TE Cade Otton. He has the potential to fill a number of the void left by Godwin and Evans. In Week 7 in opposition to the Ravens, Otton hit season highs in targets (10), receptions (8), yards (100) and fantasy factors (18.0). See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: 4 straight Buccaneers video games have gone over the overall. Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Buccaneers 28, Falcons 21
Moody’s decide: Falcons 31, Buccaneers 24
Walder’s decide: Falcons 30, Buccaneers 16
FPI prediction: TB, 57.0% (by a median of two.8 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Falcons’ Penix biding his time, studying from Cousins … Buccaneers’ Godwin seemingly out for 12 months, Evans till after bye … What’s subsequent for the Bucs after the lack of Godwin, Evans?
1 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: GB -3.5 (49.5 O/U)
Packers storyline to observe: QB Jordan Love has not seen a lot man protection this season, going through it on 31% of his dropbacks — second lowest within the league, in response to ESPN Analysis. He has six touchdowns, three interceptions and a 62.3 Whole QBR in opposition to man. The Jaguars have used man protection on 52% of their opponent dropbacks, the fifth highest within the league, and have allowed an 87 QBR when in man protection. — Rob Demovsky
Jaguars storyline to observe: QB Trevor Lawrence has been on a roll the previous three weeks, finishing 74.2% of his passes over that span. Solely the Lions’ Jared Goff (80%) has been higher however in a single fewer sport. One main motive: His off-target share is a league-best 6.8%. That has to proceed in opposition to a Packers protection that leads the NFL in turnovers compelled (17). — Mike DiRocco
Stat to know: Love is seeking to be part of Aaron Rodgers (2011) and Brett Favre (1994-95) as the one Inexperienced Bay quarterbacks with 10 straight video games of a number of passing touchdowns.
Daring prediction: The sport shall be tied in some unspecified time in the future within the fourth quarter. Quietly, Lawrence has crept as much as seventh in QBR. This Jacksonville workforce is just not that dangerous. I believe the Packers will win. It is going to be much less comfy than many may think. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Packers WR Jayden Reed. He had a disappointing Week 7, placing up simply 3.0 fantasy factors in opposition to the Texans. However do not let that efficiency overshadow his current success. Reed has posted 10 or extra fantasy factors in 5 of his previous six video games, together with two video games with over 27 factors. He is set as much as bounce again in opposition to a Jaguars protection that has allowed the fourth-most fantasy factors to broad receivers. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Jaguars had been 0-3 ATS as dwelling underdogs final season, with all three video games going underneath the overall. That is their first sport as a house underdog this 12 months. Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Packers 30, Jaguars 17
Moody’s decide: Packers 31, Jaguars 14
Walder’s decide: Packers 30, Jaguars 27
FPI prediction: GB, 60.4% (by a median of 6.2 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Does Packers’ Love have an interception downside? … Jaguars’ Thomas has emerged as a No. 1 WR
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: HOU -5 (45.5 O/U)
Colts storyline to observe: QB Anthony Richardson has had his struggles, however he has loved extra success in opposition to Houston than another workforce. In six quarters of motion in opposition to the Texans, relationship again to final season, Richardson is accountable for 5 whole touchdowns (three speeding and two passing). He has averaged 9.2 yards per go try and 10.1 yards per rush, and has a QBR of 90.1 in these video games. — Stephen Holder
Texans storyline to observe: Despite the fact that the Texans’ beat the Colts in Week 1, coach DeMeco Ryans is throwing what occurred in that sport “out the window.” He feels “to this point eliminated” from the season opener and expects a distinct Colts workforce. Indianapolis received 4 out of its previous 5 video games however nonetheless possesses the Thirty first-ranked speeding protection (159.9 yards allowed per sport), which performs into the Texans’ benefit as a result of RB Joe Mixon averages 100 yards speeding per sport. — DJ Bien-Aime
Stat to know: The Texans have swept the season sequence in opposition to the Colts solely as soon as in franchise historical past (2016).
Daring prediction: Colts WR Alec Pierce may have a 40-plus-yard reception. All he does is run deep. No broad receiver is, on common, farther downfield than Pierce. Indianapolis will seemingly should take some dangers to hold with Houston. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Mixon. He has scored 25 or extra fantasy factors in three video games. He now faces a Colts protection that permits essentially the most speeding makes an attempt and the third-most speeding yards per sport to working backs. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Colts are 4-0 ATS as underdogs this season, whereas the Texans have coated in three straight video games. Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Texans 28, Colts, 21
Moody’s decide: Texans 34, Colts 17
Walder’s decide: Texans 27, Colts 20
FPI prediction: HOU, 69.4% (by a median of three.9 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Regardless of accidents, Colts letting QB Richardson run … Texans struggling to guard Stroud as hits begin to mount
0:34
Why Fulghum believes in Anthony Richardson vs. the Texans
Tyler Fulghum is taking the Colts to win on the highway and canopy in opposition to the Texans.
4:05 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: LAC -7 (40.5 O/U)
Saints storyline to observe: The Saints are getting wholesome once more. QB Derek Carr (indirect) is the one main participant to stay on the harm report, as TE Taysom Hill (rib), WR Chris Olave (concussion), LB Pete Werner (hamstring) and OLs Lucas Patrick and Cesar Ruiz returned to apply. Saints basic supervisor Mickey Loomis stated they’ve had an harm “avalanche” that the workforce has to battle by means of to get again to successful. — Katherine Terrell
Chargers storyline to observe: The Chargers have not scored a landing within the second half since Week 1. They had been additionally held out of the tip zone of their Week 7 loss to the Cardinals, that means they have not scored a landing for the reason that second quarter of their Week 6 win over the Broncos. This matchup might be a possibility to repair their offensive woes, because the Saints are permitting the sixth-most factors within the NFL (25.7). — Kris Rhim
Stat to know: The Saints misplaced every of their previous two video games by 20 or extra factors. Their solely three-game streak of 20-point losses got here in Weeks 15-17 in 2001.
Daring prediction: Chargers RB J.K. Dobbins will surpass 100 speeding yards. The Saints are permitting 4.9 anticipated yards per carry, in response to NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. That is second worst within the league, behind solely Washington. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Chargers QB Justin Herbert. Los Angeles’ offense has an important alternative in opposition to a Saints protection that ranks final in whole yards allowed. Whereas the Chargers might lean on their working sport, this matchup additionally units the stage for Herbert to attach with receivers Ladd McConkey and Quentin Johnston. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Saints haven’t closed as seven-point underdogs since Week 12 of 2022 (plus-8.5 at 49ers). Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Chargers 24, Saints 12
Moody’s decide: Chargers 20, Saints 13
Walder’s decide: Chargers 23, Saints 16
FPI prediction: LAC, 58.5% (by a median of three.7 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Saints seal two-year extension with Kamara … Chargers vow to repair offense: ‘I nonetheless suppose we’re discovering our approach’
4:05 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: BUF -3 (46.5 O/U)
Payments storyline to observe: Scoring factors on the highway hasn’t been a powerful level for the Payments, who’re averaging 21 factors within the 4 video games away from Orchard Park, New York, this season (2-2 in these video games). There shall be a possibility to amend that in opposition to a Seahawks protection that has allowed 23.4 factors per sport (nineteenth) this 12 months. The offense shall be assisted by WR Amari Cooper taking part in in his second sport with the Payments. — Alaina Getzenberg
Seahawks storyline to observe: After permitting the fifth-most speeding yards per sport (146.1) by means of Week 7, the Seahawks are hoping their commerce for LB Ernest Jones IV will assist one of many league’s worst-run defenses. Jones, who’s sliding into the center linebacker spot in coach Mike Macdonald’s protection, will face the Payments for the second week in a row. He recorded 5 tackles, a QB hit and a go defensed for the Titans of their loss to Buffalo final Sunday. — Brady Henderson
Stat to know: If the Seahawks rating over 20 factors for the eighth straight sport, they will tie the longest streak of reaching that mark to start a season in franchise historical past (2020).
1:04
Are Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Tyler Lockett worthy fantasy starters with DK Metcalf’s harm?
Discipline Yates breaks down if Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Tyler Lockett may be high quality fantasy choices with DK Metcalf harm.
Daring prediction: Payments TE Dalton Kincaid will file six or extra receptions. Seahawks CB Riq Woolen has a 9% goal price allowed this season, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats, which ought to funnel targets away from outdoors receivers. That might imply extra targets for Kincaid, who would additionally see some snaps in opposition to Jones in his first sport with the Seahawks. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Cooper. He was eased into motion in Week 7, taking part in simply 35% of snaps. Cooper had 5 targets and completed with 16.6 fantasy factors regardless of a restricted function. Cooper might be a game-changer for the remainder of the season and has WR1 potential catching passes from QB Josh Allen. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Seahawks are 17-7 ATS as dwelling underdogs since 2011, together with 4-3 ATS in QB Geno Smith begins. Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Payments 24, Seahawks 22
Moody’s decide: Payments 28, Seahawks 27
Walder’s decide: Payments 24, Seahawks 21
FPI prediction: BUF, 63.8% (by a median of 5.0 factors)
Matchup must-reads: WR Cooper stars in debut as Payments roll at dwelling … QB Smith’s mobility making up for Seattle’s O-line points … Seahawks commerce Baker, decide for Titans’ Jones
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: DEN -10 (41.5 O/U)
Panthers storyline to observe: QB Bryce Young returns to the beginning lineup after being benched in Week 3. He is beginning as a result of Andy Dalton sprained his thumb in a automotive crash. How effectively Younger, 2-16 as a starter, performs might decide his future with Carolina, nevertheless it will not be straightforward in opposition to the Broncos. OLB Jadeveon Clowney can even return to the sphere after lacking two weeks because of a shoulder harm. Defensively, the Panthers are getting more healthy, however stress will stay a problem — Denver ranks first within the NFL in sacks allowed (9) and Carolina ranks Thirty first in sacks (seven). It might be a giant day for rookie QB Bo Nix. — David Newton
Broncos storyline to observe: The Panthers rank at or close to the underside of each main defensive class, and the Broncos rank at or close to the underside of each main passing class. The distinction has been the Broncos’ protection has lifted them to 4-3, their finest mark after seven video games since they had been 5-2 in 2016. However with Younger beginning, search for the Broncos to be aggressive. Denver ranks second within the league in sacks (28) and has the very best go rush win price as a workforce (56.9%). — Jeff Legwold
Stat to know: The Panthers want to keep away from back-to-back begins of 1-7 or worse for the primary time in franchise historical past, The final workforce to start out 1-7 or worse in consecutive seasons was the Jets (2019-20).
Daring prediction: The Panthers will fail to cross into plus-territory within the first half. I am sorry, however that is simply brutal for Younger. He is coming off the bench to play a Broncos protection that ranks first in EPA allowed per play and second in EPA allowed per dropback. This might be a tough one. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Nix. He has been on the rise, scoring 19 or extra fantasy factors in three of his previous 5 video games whereas finishing 61.9% of his passes. Nix can be a twin risk, speeding for 47 or extra yards in three video games. The rookie ought to have success in opposition to a Panthers protection that permits 18.6 fantasy factors per sport to quarterbacks. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: This might be Carolina’s twenty eighth straight sport as an underdog, which is the longest streak by any workforce for the reason that 2012-14 Jaguars (46). Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Broncos 30, Panthers 12
Moody’s decide: Broncos 35, Panthers 10
Walder’s decide: Broncos 23, Panthers 6
FPI prediction: DEN, 74.5% (by a median of 10.0 factors)
Matchup must-reads: WR Cooper stars in debut as Payments roll at dwelling … Will Broncos keep dedicated to run after massive Week 7? … Younger seeing restricted work in Panthers’ blowout losses
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: KC -9.5 (41.5 O/U)
Chiefs storyline to observe: The Raiders bullied the Chiefs within the remaining assembly between the groups final season, permitting Kansas Metropolis’s working backs 32 yards on 15 carries. With an ailing receiving group and QB Patrick Mahomes having thrown extra interceptions (eight) than TDs (six), the Chiefs should do higher on the bottom this time round. The Chiefs are averaging nearly 129 yards per sport, their finest in 12 seasons with Andy Reid as their coach. — Adam Teicher
Raiders storyline to observe: Rookie TE Brock Bowers has been a decidedly silver lining in a black cloud over the Raiders. The No. 13 general decide leads all tight ends in receptions (47) and yards (477). And he ought to be a main goal for QB Gardner Minshew in opposition to the Chiefs, who’re giving up league-high single-game averages in receptions (7.2) and yards (83.5) to tight ends. — Paul Gutierrez
Stat to know: Raiders DE Maxx Crosby has generated 36 QB pressures in his profession in opposition to Mahomes, which is essentially the most by any opposing defender in opposition to the longer term Corridor of Famer.
Daring prediction: Chiefs WR DeAndre Hopkins will catch a landing go. He might have a restricted function in his first week in Kansas Metropolis, however I think about the Chiefs would love to make use of him within the pink zone. Mahomes will belief Hopkins to return down with a contested catch. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Chiefs RB Kareem Hunt. In a fantasy soccer world the place Mahomes is averaging simply 13.8 fantasy factors per sport, Hunt ought to shine. The Chiefs are double-digit favorites, which suggests a heavy workload for him. Hunt has had 24 or extra touches and scored a minimum of 18 fantasy factors in two straight video games. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Raiders are 3-1 ATS at dwelling in opposition to the Chiefs since transferring to Las Vegas. Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Chiefs 28, Raiders 14
Moody’s decide: Chiefs 31, Raiders 14
Walder’s decide: Chiefs 26, Raiders 16
FPI prediction: KC, 73.4% (by a median of 10.0 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Is WR Hopkins the lacking Tremendous Bowl piece? … Rookie TE Bowers quietly having record-breaking 12 months
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: CHI -3 (43.5 O/U)
Bears storyline to observe: The Bears’ protection enters Week 8 having allowed 21 factors or fewer in 12 straight video games. Extending that streak shall be a problem in opposition to Washington’s high-powered offense, which ranks third in factors per sport (30.1) and fourth in yards (384.1). This would be the stiffest take a look at Chicago has confronted, notably in opposition to a top-three speeding assault (165.4 yards per sport) led by RB Brian Robinson Jr.’s 4.7 yards per carry. For as dominant because the Bears have been defensively, their one weak spot is in opposition to the run. The Commanders’ offense leads the NFL with 14 speeding touchdowns and is perhaps extra reliant on the bottom sport if QB Jayden Daniels cannot play. — Courtney Cronin
Commanders storyline to observe: Washington’s protection has slowly improved and, prior to now 4 weeks, the Commanders rank fourth in factors allowed per sport (16) and seventh in yards per sport (293). The one workforce to harm them defensively — and beat them — throughout this stretch was Baltimore. In the meantime, the Bears’ offense additionally has performed higher throughout this identical stretch. Up to now 4 weeks, Chicago ranks fifth in scoring (31.7) and twelfth in yards gained (353.7). Washington’s tackling was a lot better final week versus Carolina, as was its communication within the secondary to forestall massive performs. The latter shall be vital on Sunday. — John Keim
Stat to know: Commanders coach Dan Quinn is looking for to start out 6-2 in his first season with a second franchise after doing the identical with Atlanta in 2015. Solely two different coaches have finished that previously 100 years (Jim Caldwell and Jon Gruden).
Daring prediction: The Bears will maintain Marcus Mariota (assuming he begins with Jayden Daniels unsure) to a QBR underneath 40. Chicago has had the very best protection within the league when it comes to EPA per dropback, with a surprisingly sturdy go rush. — Walder
Accidents: Bears | Commanders
Fantasy X issue: Bears WR DJ Moore. Moore has scored 10-plus fantasy factors in 5 straight video games, together with a 27.5-point efficiency in opposition to the Panthers in Week 5. He has one other favorable matchup, together with QB Caleb Williams, in opposition to a protection that is permitting the eighth-most fantasy factors to receivers. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Commanders are 6-1 ATS this season, tied with the Colts for the very best ATS file within the NFL. Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Bears 30, Commanders 24
Moody’s decide: Commanders 27, Bears 24
Walder’s decide: Bears 27, Commanders 19
FPI prediction: CHI, 50.2% (by a median of 0.1 factors)
Matchup must-reads: QBs Williams, Daniels and the OROY race … QB Daniels’ standing unsure for Bears sport … Commanders launch former first-round decide Davis
1:38
J.J. Watt lays out his Jayden Daniels MVP case to McAfee
J.J. Watt joins “The Pat McAfee Present” to clarify how Commanders rookie QB Jayden Daniels might be the NFL MVP.
8:20 p.m. ET | NBC/Peacock | ESPN BET: SF -4 (45.5 O/U)
Cowboys storyline to observe: The stench from the 38-point loss to Detroit nonetheless lingers regardless of having the bye final week. The Cowboys are within the playoff chase, however they do not have good current reminiscences of their journeys to Levi’s Stadium — two losses, together with 42-10 final season. They’re 3-1 after the bye underneath coach Mike McCarthy. After a nasty loss and tumultuous bye week, they want this win badly. — Todd Archer
49ers storyline to observe: In three earlier conferences with Dallas, the 49ers have flummoxed Cowboys QB Dak Prescott. Prescott has a QBR of 41.6 in these video games, which is his worst mark in opposition to any of the 16 groups he has performed a minimum of two occasions over the previous 5 seasons. The Niners have efficiently compelled Prescott into turnovers, intercepting him six occasions to simply three landing passes. As all the time, the Niners might want to win the turnover battle to win this sport, because the Niners are 3-0 this season when successful the turnover battle and 0-4 when tying or shedding it. — Nick Wagoner
Stat to know: The Cowboys have been outscored by 42 factors this season, which is the second-worst level differential by means of six video games by a workforce .500 or higher prior to now decade.
Daring prediction: 49ers TE George Kittle information 80-plus receiving yards and a landing. He must be in line for extra targets with WRs Brandon Aiyuk out (knee) and Deebo Samuel Sr. (pneumonia) presumably absent too. Kittle has maintained his steadily above-average open score that he all the time posts, with a 67 this 12 months. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: 49ers WR Jauan Jennings. Count on Jennings to see extra targets with out Aiyuk. All of us keep in mind his monster 46.5-point efficiency in opposition to the Rams in Week 3. Whereas Jennings won’t hit these numbers once more, he’ll nonetheless be a key participant within the 49ers’ passing sport. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: This would be the thirty fourth straight regular-season sport the 49ers are favored in, which is the third-longest streak this century. Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: 49ers 28, Cowboys 16
Moody’s decide: 49ers 30, Cowboys 24
Walder’s decide: 49ers 27, Cowboys 20
FPI prediction: SF, 67.1% (by a median of 6.5 factors)
Matchup must-reads: The place do Cowboys stand as they exit bye week? … Can 49ers face up to harm points, keep away from ’20 repeat? … 49ers’ Aiyuk tears ACL, MCL
Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET | ABC/ESPN | ESPN BET: PIT -6 (36.5 O/U)
Giants storyline to observe: The house/highway cut up for QB Daniel Jones and the Giants’ offense is staggering this season. For some motive, they’re considerably extra productive on the highway, which WR Darius Slayton appears to suppose is a “coincidence.” Irrespective of the reasoning, Jones has all six of his passing touchdowns on the highway and all 4 of his interceptions at dwelling. Maybe fortuitously for the Giants, this sport is in Pittsburgh. — Jordan Raanan
Steelers storyline to observe: Enjoying with their fifth mixture of beginning offensive linemen within the win in opposition to the Jets, the Steelers handed their first take a look at in opposition to a sack-happy entrance, and an excellent harder problem emerges in QB Russell Wilson‘s second begin. The Giants lead the league with 31 sacks, and Dexter Lawrence II, whom coach Mike Tomlin known as “an issue,” leads all go rushers with 9 sacks. Wilson was sacked simply as soon as by the Jets, however the Giants will undoubtedly go after the veteran quarterback on Monday night time. — Brooke Pryor
Stat to know: The Giants had 119 whole yards of their loss to the Eagles, which is their fewest since their 1999 season opener at Tampa Bay.
Daring prediction: Steelers OLB Alex Highsmith will file a number of sacks. Highsmith may have the benefit of going through Giants’ backup LT Joshua Ezeudu, who has posted a low 82% go block win price this season. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Wilson. The quarterback had a standout efficiency in Week 7, racking up 24.8 fantasy factors. Pittsburgh’s offense appeared extra balanced and efficient with him underneath heart. Wilson is poised for extra success in opposition to the Giants’ protection, which permits a median of 18.6 fantasy factors per sport to quarterbacks. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Steelers are 0-9 ATS of their final 9 video games when laying a minimum of 4 factors. Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Steelers 21, Giants 14
Moody’s decide: Steelers 24, Giants 13
Walder’s decide: Steelers 19, Giants 16
FPI prediction: PIT, 69.1% (by a median of seven.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Mara: Giants ‘dedicated’ to Daboll, Schoen regardless of 2-5 begin … How UDFA Bishop has been key for protection