Our information to each NFL sport in Week 8: Matchup previews, predictions, picks and nuggets

The Week 8 NFL schedule for the 2024 season is stacked with nice matchups, and we’ve you lined with what you might want to know heading into the weekend.

Our NFL Nation reporters carry us the largest keys to each sport, and analytics author Seth Walder makes a daring prediction for every matchup. The ESPN Analysis staff supplies a giant stat to know and a betting nugget for every contest, whereas our Soccer Energy 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 ultimate rating picks for each sport. Every little thing you need to know is right here in a single spot that can assist 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. (Recreation occasions are Sunday until in any other case famous.)

Soar 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 look at: The Eagles rushed the ball a mixed 81 occasions over the previous two video games — 10 greater than the next-closest staff — for 385 complete yards (192.5 per sport). RB Saquon Barkley is second to solely the Ravens’ Derrick Henry in dashing yards per sport (109.7) and is coming off a 176-yard efficiency in opposition to his former staff, the Giants. Cincinnati has yielded 136 dashing yards per sport and has given up the second-most dashing first downs (65). — Tim McManus

Bengals storyline to look at: Cincinnati’s offense is trying 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 staff’s price from Weeks 1 by way 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 perfect passing offense on this sport — it ranks fifth in EPA per dropback — and that is a very powerful side to dominate. Plus, I will want greater than a blowout over the Giants to be satisfied by the Eagles once more. — Walder

Accidents: Eagles | Bengals

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’ll face a more durable 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 choose: Bengals 24, Eagles 20
Moody’s choose: Eagles 31, Bengals 27
Walder’s choose: 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

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1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: BAL -8 (44.5 O/U)

Ravens storyline to look at: RB Derrick Henry, the NFL’s dashing chief, goes in opposition to a Browns protection that has not allowed a operating again to realize greater than 67 yards this season. Henry has been on a tear with 873 yards dashing, 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’] document would not present that, however this protection, they’re bodily, [and] they fly to the ball,” Henry mentioned. — Jamison Hensley

Browns storyline to look at: Jameis Winston is taking up 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 would 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 probably the most TDs over a two-game span in franchise historical past.

Daring prediction: Winston will likely be sacked a minimum of 5 occasions however can even throw two touchdowns. I am betting Cleveland’s incapability to cope with the blitz wasn’t solely a Watson drawback. However on the identical time, the quarterback play ought to enhance with Winston. — Walder

Accidents: Ravens | Browns

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 choose: Ravens 30, Browns 17
Moody’s choose: Ravens 28, Browns 19
Walder’s choose: 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 dashing document, Lamar says … Boos, terrible play and a future doubtful: Inside QB Watson’s turbulent 2024 season

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1 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: DET -11 (44.5 O/U)

Titans storyline to look at: The Titans’ offense will strive to determine tips on how to increase the success they’ve discovered on early drives to the remainder of the sport. Tennessee has scored 44 of its 106 complete factors this season throughout the first three drives. The latter a part of video games has been a wrestle. “We’re seeing some completely different seems to be after which we have to have the ability to modify,” offensive coordinator Nick Holz mentioned. If Tennessee expects to win this week, it’s going to need to successfully adapt as the sport goes alongside. — Turron Davenport

Lions storyline to look at: Even with a 5-1 document, 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 staff to not succumb to a possible lure sport. Detroit is making 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, they usually’ve had a quick begin in all their video games, they usually simply have not fairly been capable of shut it out,” Campbell mentioned. — 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 a part of Calvin Johnson as the one Lions gamers to succeed in the mark inside their first 4 seasons.

Daring prediction: The Titans is not going to 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

Accidents: Titans | Lions

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 pattern 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 profitable information. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Lions 34, Titans 14
Moody’s choose: Lions 38, Titans 17
Walder’s choose: 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

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1 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: MIA -3.5 (45.5 O/U)

Cardinals storyline to look at: 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 will 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 likely to be in for an extended day in opposition to Miami’s dynamic receiving duo of Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. — Josh Weinfuss

Dolphins storyline to look at: QB Tua Tagovailoa is eligible to return for Sunday’s sport and will present an instantaneous spark to the NFL’s worst scoring offense. No less than, Hill appears to suppose so. The league’s main receiver from a season in the past mentioned “the band is again” and urged fantasy house owners to begin 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 firstly 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 facet, 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 dashing yards per sport to operating backs. Anticipate 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 choose: Cardinals 24, Dolphins 21
Moody’s choose: Dolphins 27, Cardinals 21
Walder’s choose: 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 discipline ‘nearly made me cry’ — WR Hill

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1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: NYJ -7 (40.5 O/U)

Jets storyline to look at: One other week, one other big-name debut. This week, it is DE Haason Reddick, who ended his holdout and doubtless will likely 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 previously three video games, probably the most in any three-game stretch in his profession. — Wealthy Cimini

Patriots storyline to look at: 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 dropping 24-3 to the Jets in Week 3, the Patriots are liable to having that streak snapped. Rookie QB Drake Maye, who’s making his third profession begin, has been a brilliant spot; he can change into 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 all 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 document a sack in his Jets debut. Granted, move dashing in opposition to the Patriots’ offensive line is taking part in the sport on simple mode, but it surely ought to assist Reddick shake off any rust he has from his prolonged absence. — Walder

Accidents: Jets | Patriots

Fantasy X issue: Jets RB Breece Corridor. The staff 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 operating backs. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Patriots are 0-5 ATS of their previous 5 video games. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Jets 24, Patriots 20
Moody’s choose: Jets 23, Patriots 16
Walder’s choose: Jets 26, Patriots 10
FPI prediction: NYJ, 71.2% (by a median of 8.3 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Adams: Speech my method of bringing new ‘swag and tradition’ to Jets … Mayo: Patriots performed delicate, however he believes they will flip it round

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1 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: ATL -2.5 (46.5 O/U)

Falcons storyline to look at: The Falcons’ largest albatross continues to be their move rush, however additionally 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 look at: It is a doomsday state of affairs for the Bucs. Tampa Bay is down its two star vast receivers Mike Evans (hamstring) and Chris Godwin (ankle), in what appears 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 sector and minimize down on missed tackles. — Jenna Laine

Stat to know: The Falcons wish 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 exterior zone runs than Atlanta (77%), and the Bucs are permitting 5.4 yards per carry to exterior 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 entire. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Buccaneers 28, Falcons 21
Moody’s choose: Falcons 31, Buccaneers 24
Walder’s choose: 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 yr, Evans till after bye … What’s subsequent for the Bucs after the lack of Godwin, Evans?

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1 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: GB -3.5 (49.5 O/U)

Packers storyline to look at: 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 look at: 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 purpose: His off-target proportion 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 trying to be a 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 will likely 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 staff isn’t that dangerous. I believe the Packers will win. It will likely be much less snug than many may think. — Walder

Accidents: Packers | Jaguars

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 vast receivers. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Jaguars have been 0-3 ATS as residence underdogs final season, with all three video games going underneath the entire. That is their first sport as a house underdog this yr. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Packers 30, Jaguars 17
Moody’s choose: Packers 31, Jaguars 14
Walder’s choose: 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 drawback? … Jaguars’ Thomas has emerged as a No. 1 WR

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1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: HOU -5 (45.5 O/U)

Colts storyline to look at: QB Anthony Richardson has had his struggles, however he has loved extra success in opposition to Houston than another staff. In six quarters of motion in opposition to the Texans, courting again to final season, Richardson is accountable for 5 complete touchdowns (three dashing and two passing). He has averaged 9.2 yards per move try and 10.1 yards per rush, and has a QBR of 90.1 in these video games. — Stephen Holder

Texans storyline to look at: Although the Texans’ beat the Colts in Week 1, coach DeMeco Ryans is throwing what occurred in that sport “out the window.” He feels “thus far eliminated” from the season opener and expects a distinct Colts staff. Indianapolis received 4 out of its previous 5 video games however nonetheless possesses the Thirty first-ranked dashing protection (159.9 yards allowed per sport), which performs into the Texans’ benefit as a result of RB Joe Mixon averages 100 yards dashing per sport. — DJ Bien-Aime

Stat to know: The Texans have swept the season collection in opposition to the Colts solely as soon as in franchise historical past (2016).

Daring prediction: Colts WR Alec Pierce can have a 40-plus-yard reception. All he does is run deep. No vast receiver is, on common, farther downfield than Pierce. Indianapolis will seemingly need to take some dangers to hold with Houston. — Walder

Accidents: Colts | Texans

Fantasy X issue: Mixon. He has scored 25 or extra fantasy factors in three video games. He now faces a Colts protection that permits probably the most dashing makes an attempt and the third-most dashing yards per sport to operating backs. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Colts are 4-0 ATS as underdogs this season, whereas the Texans have lined in three straight video games. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Texans 28, Colts, 21
Moody’s choose: Texans 34, Colts 17
Walder’s choose: 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

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4:05 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: LAC -7 (40.5 O/U)

Saints storyline to look at: The Saints are getting wholesome once more. QB Derek Carr (indirect) is the one main participant to stay on the damage 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 mentioned they’ve had an damage “avalanche” that the staff has to struggle by way of to get again to profitable. — Katherine Terrell

Chargers storyline to look at: The Chargers have not scored a landing within the second half since Week 1. They have been additionally held out of the top 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.Okay. Dobbins will surpass 100 dashing 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

Accidents: Saints | Chargers

Fantasy X issue: Chargers QB Justin Herbert. Los Angeles’ offense has an important alternative in opposition to a Saints protection that ranks final in complete yards allowed. Whereas the Chargers might lean on their operating 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 choose: Chargers 24, Saints 12
Moody’s choose: Chargers 20, Saints 13
Walder’s choose: 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 method’

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4:05 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: BUF -3 (46.5 O/U)

Payments storyline to look at: 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 will likely be a possibility to amend that in opposition to a Seahawks protection that has allowed 23.4 factors per sport (nineteenth) this yr. The offense will likely be assisted by WR Amari Cooper taking part in in his second sport with the Payments. — Alaina Getzenberg

Seahawks storyline to look at: After permitting the fifth-most dashing yards per sport (146.1) by way 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 move 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).

Daring prediction: Payments TE Dalton Kincaid will document 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 exterior receivers. That would imply extra targets for Kincaid, who would additionally see some snaps in opposition to Jones in his first sport with the Seahawks. — Walder

Accidents: Payments | Seahawks

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 residence underdogs since 2011, together with 4-3 ATS in QB Geno Smith begins. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Payments 24, Seahawks 22
Moody’s choose: Payments 28, Seahawks 27
Walder’s choose: 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 residence … QB Smith’s mobility making up for Seattle’s O-line points … Seahawks commerce Baker, choose for Titans’ Jones

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4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: DEN -10 (41.5 O/U)

Panthers storyline to look at: QB Bryce Younger 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 automobile crash. How properly Younger, 2-16 as a starter, performs might decide his future with Carolina, but it surely will not be simple in opposition to the Broncos. OLB Jadeveon Clowney can even return to the sector after lacking two weeks attributable to a shoulder damage. Defensively, the Panthers are getting more healthy, however strain 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 look at: 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 have 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 move rush win price as a staff (56.9%). — Jeff Legwold

Stat to know: The Panthers wish to keep away from back-to-back begins of 1-7 or worse for the primary time in franchise historical past, The final staff 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

Accidents: Panthers | Broncos

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 also be a twin menace, dashing 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 could be Carolina’s twenty eighth straight sport as an underdog, which is the longest streak by any staff for the reason that 2012-14 Jaguars (46). Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Broncos 30, Panthers 12
Moody’s choose: Broncos 35, Panthers 10
Walder’s choose: 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 residence … Will Broncos keep dedicated to run after massive Week 7? … Younger seeing restricted work in Panthers’ blowout losses

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4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: KC -9.5 (41.5 O/U)

Chiefs storyline to look at: The Raiders bullied the Chiefs within the ultimate assembly between the groups final season, permitting Kansas Metropolis’s operating 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 look at: Rookie TE Brock Bowers has been a decidedly silver lining in a black cloud over the Raiders. The No. 13 total choose leads all tight ends in receptions (47) and yards (477). And he must be a major 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 probably 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 move. 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 crimson zone. Mahomes will belief Hopkins to come back down with a contested catch. — Walder

Accidents: Chiefs | Raiders

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 residence in opposition to the Chiefs since transferring to Las Vegas. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Chiefs 28, Raiders 14
Moody’s choose: Chiefs 31, Raiders 14
Walder’s choose: 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 yr

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4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: CHI -3 (43.5 O/U)

Bears storyline to look at: The Bears’ protection enters Week 8 having allowed 21 factors or fewer in 12 straight video games. Extending that streak will likely 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 check Chicago has confronted, notably in opposition to a top-three dashing 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 point is in opposition to the run. The Commanders’ offense leads the NFL with 14 dashing touchdowns and is likely to be extra reliant on the bottom sport if QB Jayden Daniels cannot play. — Courtney Cronin

Commanders storyline to look at: Washington’s protection has slowly improved and, previously 4 weeks, the Commanders rank fourth in factors allowed per sport (16) and seventh in yards per sport (293). The one staff 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. Previously 4 weeks, Chicago ranks fifth in scoring (31.7) and twelfth in yards gained (353.7). Washington’s tackling was significantly better final week versus Carolina, as was its communication within the secondary to stop massive performs. The latter will likely be vital on Sunday. — John Keim

Stat to know: Commanders coach Dan Quinn is in search of 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 executed 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 perfect protection within the league when it comes to EPA per dropback, with a surprisingly sturdy move 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 perfect ATS document within the NFL. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Bears 30, Commanders 24
Moody’s choose: Commanders 27, Bears 24
Walder’s choose: 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 choose Davis

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8:20 p.m. ET | NBC/Peacock | ESPN BET: SF -4 (45.5 O/U)

Cowboys storyline to look at: 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 look at: 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 only three landing passes. As at all times, the Niners might want to win the turnover battle to win this sport, because the Niners are 3-0 this season when profitable the turnover battle and 0-4 when tying or dropping it. — Nick Wagoner

Stat to know: The Cowboys have been outscored by 42 factors this season, which is the second-worst level differential by way of six video games by a staff .500 or higher previously decade.

Daring prediction: 49ers TE George Kittle information 80-plus receiving yards and a landing. He should be in line for extra targets with WRs Brandon Aiyuk out (knee) and Deebo Samuel Sr. (pneumonia) probably absent too. Kittle has maintained his steadily above-average open rating that he at all times posts, with a 67 this yr. — Walder

Accidents: Cowboys | 49ers

Fantasy X issue: 49ers WR Jauan Jennings. Anticipate Jennings to see extra targets with out Aiyuk. All of us bear in mind his monster 46.5-point efficiency in opposition to the Rams in Week 3. Whereas Jennings may not 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 choose: 49ers 28, Cowboys 16
Moody’s choose: 49ers 30, Cowboys 24
Walder’s choose: 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 damage points, keep away from ’20 repeat? … 49ers’ Aiyuk tears ACL, MCL

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Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET | ABC/ESPN | ESPN BET: PIT -6 (36.5 O/U)

Giants storyline to look at: The house/highway cut up for QB Daniel Jones and the Giants’ offense is staggering this season. For some purpose, 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 residence. Maybe luckily for the Giants, this sport is in Pittsburgh. — Jordan Raanan

Steelers storyline to look at: Enjoying with their fifth mixture of beginning offensive linemen within the win in opposition to the Jets, the Steelers handed their first check in opposition to a sack-happy entrance, and a fair more durable 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 move 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 evening. — Brooke Pryor

Stat to know: The Giants had 119 complete 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 document a number of sacks. Highsmith can have the benefit of going through Giants’ backup LT Joshua Ezeudu, who has posted a low 82% move block win price this season. — Walder

Accidents: Giants | Steelers

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 choose: Steelers 21, Giants 14
Moody’s choose: Steelers 24, Giants 13
Walder’s choose: 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