The Week 8 NFL schedule for the 2025 season brings thrilling matchups.
Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers faces his former staff when the Packers come to city, the Payments look to keep away from dropping three straight, and the Giants and Eagles face off in a traditional NFC East showdown.
We’ve got you coated with every thing you should know. Our NFL Nation reporters take you contained in the locker room with the most effective factor they heard this week, and ESPN Analysis supplies a key stat to know and a betting nugget for every contest. Plus, analytics author Seth Walder makes a daring prediction for every matchup, and fantasy analyst Eric Moody shares fantasy soccer intel. We even have Soccer Energy Index (FPI) matchup high quality scores (out of 100) and recreation projections, and three analysts — Pamela Maldonado, Moody and Walder — give us last rating picks for each recreation.
Let’s get into the complete Week 8 slate, which culminates with a “Monday Night time Soccer” matchup between the Commanders and Chiefs on ESPN. (Sport occasions are Sunday except in any other case famous.)
Leap to a matchup:
SF-HOU | NYG-PHI | CHI-BAL
BUF-CAR | CLE-NE | NYJ-CIN
MIA-ATL | TB-NO | DAL-DEN
TEN-IND | GB-PIT | WSH-KC
Thursday: MIN-LAC
Bye: DET, LV, LAR, ARI, SEA, JAX
1 p.m. ET | Fox | Matchup score: 64.7/100
ESPN BET: HOU -1.5 (41.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the 49ers: For the primary time since DeMeco Ryans left San Francisco to be the Texans’ coach, the Niners should face a Ryans-led protection. It is a tall order, as Houston ranks first within the NFL in scoring protection, second in defensive EPA and fifth in yards per carry allowed (3.8). “You are going towards a really sound protection schematically, a protection that performs the precise manner with their intent and simply how bodily they play, and a really proficient group of 11 guys, too, with good backups,” coach Kyle Shanahan mentioned. “Every thing’s a problem about it, nevertheless it begins with their physicality and soundness.” — Nick Wagoner
What we’re listening to on the Texans: The Texans’ cross catchers may take a success this week. Wideout Nico Collins, who’s within the concussion protocol, may not play. And wideout Christian Kirk, who missed final week’s recreation with a hamstring harm, could be out once more. Neither practiced on Wednesday or Thursday, and the Texans hardly ever play guys who do not observe each days. Anticipate rookies Jaylin Noel and Jayden Higgins to fill the void. — DJ Bien-Aime
Stat to know: Regardless of rotating between quarterbacks Brock Purdy and Mac Jones, the 49ers lead the league in passing yards per recreation (271.3) and are tied with the Bucs for the second most yards after the catch this season (923). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Texans CB Derek Stingley Jr. will enable not less than 60 receiving yards. Although he has two interceptions, Stingley’s general protection numbers usually are not almost pretty much as good as they had been a season in the past, however his 17% goal fee and 1.6 yards allowed per protection snap are each above common for an outdoor nook. — Walder
Accidents: 49ers | Texans
Fantasy nugget: The Texans’ protection has allowed solely 9.3 fantasy factors per recreation to QBs this season, the fewest within the league, making it troublesome to belief any of the 49ers’ cross catchers. Christian McCaffrey, nonetheless, stays matchup-proof. He has logged 19-plus touches and scored 22-plus fantasy factors in each recreation this season. McCaffrey can be the primary participant to open a season with seven straight video games of 20 or extra fantasy factors since Jalen Hurts in 2021, and the primary non-QB since RBs Saquon Barkley and Todd Gurley in 2018. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The 49ers are 1-4 ATS (towards the unfold) as street underdogs because the begin of final season. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: 49ers 28, Texans 6
Moody’s choose: 49ers 26, Texans 23
Walder’s choose: 49ers 23, Texans 17
FPI prediction: HOU, 56.2% (by a median of two.5 factors)
Matchup must-reads: 49ers’ Kittle’s return offers glimpse of wholesome 49ers offense … Texans’ coach Ryans has no plan to make change at OC
1 p.m. ET | Fox | Matchup score: 61.7/100
ESPN BET: PHI -7.5 (44.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Giants: The Giants snapped their eight-game NFC East skid towards the Eagles two weeks in the past at MetLife Stadium. This can be a totally different problem for rookie QB Jaxson Dart & Co. in Philadelphia. “If [Dart] did not have any haters, he’ll discover out the place all of them dwell,” WR Darius Slayton mentioned. “He is about to get launched to all of them.” Philadelphia has been a home of horrors for the Giants. The final time they gained there was in 2013. — Jordan Raanan
What we’re listening to on the Eagles: Eagles LT Jordan Mailata referred to as this rematch “private” for him after taking part in “very passive” in what he described because the worst recreation of his profession in Week 6. The Eagles uncharacteristically misplaced the battle on the level of assault, and they don’t plan on historical past repeating itself. “The message this week is ‘Be bodily. … Let’s be bodily up entrance, each side of the ball, and dominate,'” Mailata mentioned. — Tim McManus
Stat to know: The Eagles co-lead the league with a 100% goal-to-go TD proportion and have a league-high 82.4% crimson zone TD proportion. However additionally they lead the league in three-and-out drives leading to a punt (25) and have 31 drives with no first down (tied for second most behind Tennessee). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Giants OT Andrew Thomas won’t report a single cross block loss. Not solely have the Eagles’ cross rushers struggled to generate stress this season, however Thomas ranks first amongst tackles with a 96.4% cross block win fee. — Walder
0:21
Matt Dodge, DeSean Jackson replicate on “Miracle on the Meadowlands”
Former Giants punter Matt Dodge and DeSean Jackson replicate on the “Miracle on the Meadowlands” play. For the complete function, take a look at this weekend’s “Sunday NFL Countdown.”
Accidents: Giants | Eagles
Fantasy nugget: Giants WR Wan’Dale Robinson has been phenomenal over the previous three video games, recording 5 or extra receptions in every and 15-plus fantasy factors in two. He has drawn 26 targets throughout that stretch. The Eagles’ defensive entrance ranks thirteenth in cross rush win fee (40.2%), which might result in extra fast throws from Dart, a lift for Robinson. Philadelphia additionally permits the fifth-most receiving yards per recreation to WRs. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Giants are 6-2 ATS up to now eight street conferences in Philadelphia regardless of being 0-8 outright. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Eagles 23, Giants 21
Moody’s choose: Eagles 38, Giants 20
Walder’s choose: Eagles 28, Giants 23
FPI prediction: PHI, 64.9% (by a median of 5.8 factors)
Matchup must-reads: NFC East Roundtable: Can the defending champs take the division crown once more? … Giants’ Carter doing ‘nice job’ regardless of lack of sacks … Giants-Eagles and the rivalry’s most horrible/great play
1 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup score: 57.9/100
ESPN BET: BAL -6.5 (48.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Bears: Rookie TE Colston Loveland is in line for a much bigger workload with Cole Kmet sidelined with a again harm. The place group has been underused in Chicago, and Week 8 presents coach Ben Johnson with a chance to get Loveland extra concerned within the passing recreation. “I do know that the manufacturing — name it six video games into it — is not what any of us possibly search for from a numbers perspective however [Loveland is] impacting video games in a really constructive style for us, and he is a purpose why our offense goes to proceed to get higher,” Johnson mentioned. — Courtney Cronin
What we’re listening to on the Ravens: The Ravens, who’ve tied the franchise’s worst begin, are in must-win mode. Just one staff in NFL historical past — the 1970 Bengals — has reached the playoffs after beginning 1-6. “Each recreation for us is a playoff recreation,” S Kyle Hamilton mentioned. “That is the way it feels and the way it’ll must be from right here on out. We dug ourselves right into a deep gap, however to be able to get within the dance, we have got to essentially be locked in from right here on out.” Baltimore usually is at its finest following some relaxation, going 8-1 in video games straight following the bye week since 2016. — Jamison Hensley
Stat to know: Ravens RB Derrick Henry’s 88 rushes are his fewest via six video games since 2018 with the Titans. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Bears LB Tremaine Edmunds will lead the league in mixed tackles in Week 8. The Ravens lean run-heavy, however extra importantly they’re strong favorites over the Bears. If Baltimore will get out to a lead, all these dashing makes an attempt to expire the clock will give Edmunds loads of deal with alternatives. — Walder
Accidents: Bears | Ravens
Fantasy nugget: Though the Ravens’ offensive line ranks twenty sixth in run block win fee (69.2%), Henry is likely one of the few RBs within the league expert sufficient to transcend poor O-line play. Baltimore faces a Bears defensive entrance that ranks twenty third in run cease win fee (29%) and permits the fifth-most dashing yards per recreation (137.7). See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Chicago has coated 4 straight video games, its longest streak since 2018 (when it coated 5 video games). Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Ravens 31, Bears 29
Moody’s choose: Ravens 24, Bears 21
Walder’s choose: Ravens 37, Bears 31
FPI prediction: BAL, 60% (by a median of three.8 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Bears’ WR Odunze breaking out in 12 months 2 … Ravens’ QB Jackson (hamstring) practices; standing TBD
1 p.m. ET | Fox | Matchup score: 50.5/100
ESPN BET: BUF -7.5 (45.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Payments: Coming off their bye week, the Payments need to keep away from scoring 20 factors or fewer in three straight video games for the primary time since 2020. Carolina has allowed 20 or extra factors in all however two video games this season. QB Josh Allen mentioned the offense’s struggles to complete video games are very correctable. “Simply pulling collectively as a staff, ensuring we’re staying as one unit, getting again to the basics. Once more, simply trusting the opposite 10 guys on the sector with you. And also you’re trusted and anticipated to do your 1/eleventh.” — Alaina Getzenberg
What we’re listening to on the Panthers: The important thing to this recreation may very well be Buffalo’s porous run protection, which ranks thirty first within the NFL, giving up 156.3 floor yards per recreation. RBs Chuba Hubbard and Rico Dowdle can take the stress off QB Andy Dalton with a dashing offense that ranks third in yards per recreation (140.1). — David Newton
Stat to know: Allen is looking for 5 consecutive video games with a number of passing TDs for the primary time since Weeks 4-8 of the 2023 season. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Panthers WR Jalen Coker will report not less than 4 receptions. He had zero in his season-debut final week, however I’ve a suspicion that Coker will finally take a reasonably respectable share of the receiving work within the Panthers’ offense after recording 1.9 yards per route run final season. — Walder
Accidents: Payments | Panthers
Fantasy nugget: Carolina has but to permit a QB to throw for over 300 yards in a recreation, and it has allowed the third-fewest fantasy factors per recreation to opposing receivers. Nevertheless, Khalil Shakir leads the Payments in yards per route run towards zone protection, which is notable as a result of the Panthers play essentially the most zone protection within the league. Carolina additionally offers up the third-most fantasy factors per recreation to TEs, which bodes effectively for Dalton Kincaid. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Overs are 17-7 in Panthers video games and 15-8 in Payments video games because the begin of final season. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Payments 25, Panthers 19
Moody’s choose: Payments 27, Panthers 20
Walder’s choose: Payments 34, Panthers 17
FPI prediction: BUF, 55.2% (by a median of two factors)
Matchup must-reads: Payments getting defensive reinforcements in hopes to keep away from three-game slide … Panthers assured in QB Dalton if Younger is out … Supply: Panthers’ Younger has excessive ankle sprain, probably out this week
1 p.m. ET | Fox | Matchup score: 39/100
ESPN BET: NE -6.5 (40.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Browns: Your complete Browns protection obtained a recreation ball for a masterful recreation plan towards the Dolphins that resulted in six factors allowed and three interceptions. The Patriots and QB Drake Maye, although, will pose a big step up in competitors. Maye has the best QBR towards man protection (93.3), and Cleveland makes use of the seventh-highest fee of man protection within the NFL (48.9%). “I would not say it is a sophisticated offense,” S Grant Delpit mentioned. “They only do the straightforward issues they usually play exhausting, so it’ll be a problem for us. You have to be careful for his twin menace skill as effectively, so he is a very good quarterback.” — Daniel Oyefusi
What we’re listening to on the Patriots: Returning residence from a three-game street journey, WR Stefon Diggs famous the staff’s 1-2 report taking part in at residence and mentioned the purpose is easy: “Shield the home. It is time to get again to the crib, get in entrance of our residence crowd and provides them one thing to be pleased with.” Coach Mike Vrabel mentioned the Browns’ protection is the most effective the Patriots have confronted thus far this season — each statistically and from a play fashion that makes use of pace and disruption. — Mike Reiss
Stat to know: Browns rookie RB Quinshon Judkins’ 5 dashing TDs this season (three final week) are essentially the most by any Browns participant via their first six profession video games since 1970. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Diggs will report 80 or extra receiving yards. He at present has an 80 open rating — fifth finest amongst WRs — and has been a key a part of the Patriots’ extremely profitable passing offense. — Walder
2:04
Mike Vrabel tells Wealthy Eisen how he coaches Drake Maye
Mike Vrabel joins “The Wealthy Eisen Present” to debate Drake Maye and the steps he has taken towards constructing useful relationships inside the Patriots.
Accidents: Browns | Patriots
Fantasy nugget: Maye recorded his third recreation with two TD passes, no interceptions and a completion fee of not less than 80% in Week 7, tied for the third-most such video games in a single season in NFL historical past. Solely Drew Brees (2018) and Jared Goff (2024) have completed it 4 occasions. The Browns play man protection greater than any staff within the league, and Diggs leads all Patriots receivers in yards per route run towards man. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Browns are 0-8 ATS of their previous eight street video games. One other ATS loss would match the longest street dropping streak up to now 40 seasons. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Patriots 26, Browns 14
Moody’s choose: Patriots 24, Browns 12
Walder’s choose: Patriots 27, Browns 18
FPI prediction: NE, 68.1% (by a median of seven.5 factors)
Matchup must-reads: ‘One win is one factor, however we have gotta flip this right into a behavior’: Browns hungry for extra … QB Maye units Patriots report for completion proportion … QB Sanders not getting starter reps behind Gabriel
1 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup score: 33.2/100
ESPN BET: CIN -6.5 (44.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Jets: Justin Fields or Tyrod Taylor? Coach Aaron Glenn is not revealing his QB choice. Both manner, the Jets might be hard-pressed to snap their dropping skid, as WR Garrett Wilson (knee) and CB Sauce Gardner (concussion) are unlikely to play. With out Gardner, it will be exhausting to defend Bengals WR Ja’Marr Chase, whom defensive coordinator Steve Wilks referred to as “a possible Corridor of Famer.” It will likely be fascinating to see in the event that they use rookie Azareye’h Thomas or just lately acquired CB Jarvis Brownlee Jr. to switch Gardner. — Wealthy Cimini
What we’re listening to on the Bengals: There’s a sure steadiness that QB Joe Flacco has delivered to the Bengals’ offense. Whether or not it was after a loss to Inexperienced Bay or in a win over Pittsburgh, guard Dalton Risner famous that Flacco is as even-keeled because it will get. That trait has been seen by many in Flacco’s transient time in Cincinnati and is essential for a staff attempting to construct momentum. “We’ve got not come near reaching our potential as a staff but,” coach Zac Taylor mentioned. “In order that’s so essential — guys persevering with to enhance so we play our greatest recreation towards the Jets.” — Ben Child
2:19
Wealthy Eisen: It is a whole catastrophe for Justin Fields and the Jets
Wealthy Eisen goes into element in regards to the tough begin to the season for Justin Fields and the Jets.
Stat to know: The Bengals’ 68.9 dashing yards per recreation this season are the fewest within the NFL. They’d a season-high 142 dashing yards in Week 7 towards the Steelers. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: The Jets will report not less than a 50% success fee on designed runs. New York ranks first in yards earlier than contact per carry (3.1), and the Bengals are weak in that space. Cincinnati permits 2.9 yards earlier than contact, which ranks fifth worst. — Walder
Accidents: Jets | Bengals
Fantasy nugget: Bengals WR Tee Higgins has loved a renaissance since Flacco took over. He has seen 18 whole targets over his previous two video games and posted a season-high 21.6 fantasy factors in Week 7. The Jets have struggled to comprise opposing No. 2 receivers, and with Gardner probably out, Higgins might see even softer protection this week. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Over the previous decade, the Jets are 20-40-1 ATS as street underdogs and 23-44-1 ATS general on the street. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Bengals 27, Jets 23
Moody’s choose: Bengals 31, Jets 17
Walder’s choose: Jets 19, Bengals 16
FPI prediction: CIN, 57.8% (by a median of three.2 factors)
Matchup must-reads: QB Fields shrugs off Jets proprietor Johnson’s criticism
1 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup score: 29.7/100
ESPN BET: ATL -7.5 (44.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Dolphins: This can be a dream matchup on paper for one aspect and a nightmare for the opposite. Falcons RB Bijan Robinson leads the NFL in whole yards per recreation (152.3) and is 2 weeks faraway from an explosive 238-yard efficiency. In the meantime, the Dolphins have allowed 5 of the seven beginning RBs they’ve confronted this season to eclipse 100 whole yards, with Jonathan Taylor (98) and Quinshon Judkins (84) falling simply quick. Robinson may very well be in line for an enormous day if Miami cannot proper the ship. — Marcel Louis-Jacques
What we’re listening to on the Falcons: The Falcons are seventh within the league in yards per recreation (364.3), so their offense has been capable of transfer the ball. Entering into the tip zone has been one other story. Their 18.3 factors per recreation is fifth worst within the NFL. QB Michael Penix Jr. mentioned that the Falcons “cannot accept subject objectives” — and maybe the Dolphins, who enable the fourth-most factors per recreation (29.3), can get Atlanta out of the rut. — Marc Raimondi
Stat to know: The Falcons have allowed 141.2 passing yards per recreation (fewest within the NFL), which is the staff’s finest mark via six video games since 1977 and the fewest by any staff via six video games because the 2019 49ers. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Dolphins edge Jaelan Phillips will report not less than a 28% cross rush win fee. He will get the chance to play towards RT Elijah Wilkinson, who ranks sixty fifth out of 69 qualifying tackles in cross block win fee (80.1%). — Walder
Accidents: Dolphins | Falcons
Fantasy nugget: The Dolphins’ protection permits the third-most fantasy factors per recreation to RBs. Tight finish Kyle Pitts Sr. can be coming off a season-high 10 targets and his second-best fantasy efficiency of the season with 13.2 factors. He now faces a Miami protection that offers up the seventh-most receiving yards per recreation to TEs. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Six straight Dolphins video games have gone over the whole. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Falcons 28, Dolphins 23
Moody’s choose: Falcons 27, Dolphins 20
Walder’s choose: Dolphins 20, Falcons 17
FPI prediction: ATL, 62.1% (by a median of 5 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Miami coach McDaniel sticks with Tua as starter, expects fewer INTs … Falcons QB Penix ‘feeling good,’ plans to play towards Dolphins … Dolphins TE Waller positioned on IR with pectoral harm
4:05 p.m. ET | Fox | Matchup score: 38.8/100
ESPN BET: TB -3.5 (46.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Buccaneers: The accidents at WR proceed to mount for the Bucs, with Mike Evans now out with a damaged clavicle. His absence creates an enormous void, and Tampa Bay is already with out Chris Godwin Jr. (fibula), Jalen McMillan (neck) and RB Bucky Irving (foot, shoulder). “Sadly, from the enterprise standpoint, it’s a must to transfer ahead. You can not concentrate on that, however from the non-public level of that, it simply sucks,” coach Todd Bowles mentioned. — Jenna Laine
What we’re listening to on the Saints: The Saints are coping with some well being points only a week after having full participation in observe. Middle Erik McCoy (biceps) and RB Kendre Miller (knee) went to IR, and WR Chris Olave missed observe Wednesday with an ankle harm. Olave had a hip harm final week however nonetheless had 98 yards and two touchdowns. New Orleans will exchange McCoy with Luke Fortner, who was acquired via a commerce within the preseason, whereas rookie RB Devin Neal will get extra snaps now that Miller is out. — Katherine Terrell
Stat to know: Bucs QB Baker Mayfield’s eight passing touchdowns on deep throws this season (20-plus air yards) are essentially the most within the NFL. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Saints RB Alvin Kamara will set a season excessive with 50-plus receiving yards. Bucs LB SirVocea Dennis is struggling in protection, permitting 2.0 yards per protection snap. It is essentially the most amongst LBs by a wholesome margin and greater than the double the positional common, which helped Lions RB Jahmyr Gibbs have a giant receiving day in Week 7. Now, it is Kamara’s flip. — Walder
Accidents: Buccaneers | Saints
Fantasy nugget: Tampa Bay can be clever to lean on its operating recreation towards the Saints. New Orleans permits the ninth-most dashing yards per recreation, and its defensive entrance ranks close to the underside of the league in run cease win fee (27.7%). That bodes effectively for Tampa Bay’s floor assault in a recreation with a slim unfold and one of many larger totals on the slate. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Saints are 9-3 ATS towards the Bucs since 2019. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Buccaneers 22, Saints 17
Moody’s choose: Buccaneers 35, Saints 17
Walder’s choose: Buccaneers 23, Saints 13
FPI prediction: TB, 64.1% (by a median of 5.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Buccaneers face injury-depleted roster forward of Saints recreation … WR Olave, Saints have ‘clear communication’ regardless of commerce rumors … What’s Saints’ coach Moore desirous about QBs Rattler, Shough?
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup score: 69.9/100
ESPN BET: DEN -3.5 (50.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Cowboys: Consistency has not been a mainstay for the Cowboys. They go to Denver on the lookout for consecutive wins for the primary time since Weeks 15-16 final season. And they’re 1-3 on the street, with their solely victory coming towards the winless Jets. “Nobody cares the place we’re at the moment. That does not matter,” coach Brian Schottenheimer mentioned. “What issues is the place we’ll be in January.” If they do not stack wins, January will not matter. — Todd Archer
What we’re listening to on the Broncos: The Broncos proceed to stroll the road between a very good 5-2 report or a fortunate 5-2 report. The Cowboys’ offense — No. 1 in whole offense, No. 2 in scoring — will take a look at Denver’s protection to make certain. However the Broncos’ destiny could be tied to simply what number of yellow flags hit the bottom. This staff has had the second-most penalties within the league (together with declined penalties). Denver has been flagged 73 occasions and leads the league in defensive penalties (31) whereas being tied for third-most penalties on offense (36). — Jeff Legwold
Stat to know: Cowboys QB Dak Prescott’s 4 consecutive video games with three-plus passing touchdowns and no interceptions is the longest streak in franchise historical past and tied for the second-longest streak in NFL historical past. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Broncos RB Tyler Badie will report a season-high 20-plus receiving yards. Not solely do the Cowboys play a particularly excessive fee of zone protection, which inspires RB receptions, however additionally they are permitting 8.5 yards per display cross, third most within the league this season. — Walder
1:39
Dan Orlovsky: CeeDee Lamb, George Pickens by far the most effective NFL WR duo
The “Get Up” crew debates whether or not the Cowboys’ CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens are the most effective huge receiver duo within the NFL.
Accidents: Cowboys | Broncos
Fantasy nugget: Broncos QB Bo Nix completed with 40.0 fantasy factors in Week 7, essentially the most by any QB in a recreation this season, with 35.6 coming within the fourth quarter. He ought to discover success earlier towards a Cowboys protection that enables essentially the most fantasy factors per recreation to QBs. With the best whole on the slate, you will wish to begin all fantasy-relevant gamers from each groups. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: 4 straight Cowboys video games have gone over the whole. The Cowboys are 3-0 ATS as underdogs this season. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Cowboys 24, Broncos 10
Moody’s choose: Broncos 33, Cowboys 27
Walder’s choose: Cowboys 27, Broncos 23
FPI prediction: DEN, 54.6% (by a median of 1.9 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Inside Cowboys’ Aubrey’s plan for legendary 70-yard subject purpose … Veteran WR Sutton stands out in Broncos’ offense … Bland’s pick-six caps rebound outing from Cowboys’ D … Inside wild fourth quarter, Broncos’ comeback win over Giants
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup score: 41/100
ESPN BET: IND -14.5 (47.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Titans: The Titans will probably be with out DT Jeffery Simmons (hamstring), which does not bode effectively for his or her run protection. Colts RB Jonathan Taylor’s 697 dashing yards lead the league and will enhance exponentially this week, regardless that Tennessee’s focus might be on stopping him. Defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson mentioned Simmons’ play has been the most effective from a 3-technique this season and is leaning on T’Vondre Sweat, amongst others, to fill the void. “You’ll be able to’t exchange Jeff Simmons,” Wilson mentioned. “They’ve simply obtained to be the most effective model of themselves and play their finest soccer.” — Turron Davenport
What we’re listening to on the Colts: The Colts have gained 5 straight conferences with the Titans, going again to October 2023. In these contests, Indianapolis has averaged 30.6 factors, together with a 41-20 win final month. The Colts have had 4 totally different beginning QBs in these video games — Anthony Richardson Sr., Gardner Minshew, Joe Flacco and Daniel Jones — nevertheless it hasn’t impacted the outcomes. Sunday’s recreation, which Jones will begin, will mark the primary time since 2022 {that a} single Colts signal-caller began each video games towards Tennessee in the identical season. — Stephen Holder
Stat to know: Colts TE Tyler Warren has three consecutive video games with a receiving landing, tied for the longest streak by a rookie in franchise historical past. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Titans TE Chig Okonkwo will report not less than 50 receiving yards. Of the targets towards the Colts, 42% have been to gamers lined up within the slot this season — the third-highest fee within the league — and no participant has extra targets from the slot on Tennessee than Okonkwo (25). — Walder
Accidents: Titans | Colts
Fantasy nugget: Taylor has the potential to ship a matchup-winning efficiency towards a Titans protection that enables the fifth-most fantasy factors per recreation to RBs. The Colts’ offensive line should not have any downside creating operating lanes for Taylor, who has had 19-plus touches and 23-plus fantasy factors in three straight video games. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Titans are 4-20 ATS because the begin of final season, which is the worst report within the NFL. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Colts 37, Titans 16
Moody’s choose: Colts 31, Titans 9
Walder’s choose: Colts 26, Titans 13
FPI prediction: IND, 82.8% (by a median of 14.4 factors)
Matchup must-reads: A have a look at 4 gamers that the Titans might commerce … Colts QB Jones defies label with aggressive method … Why McCoy’s Titans teaching debut resulted in Vrabel chants
8:20 p.m. ET | NBC | Matchup score: 72.3/100
ESPN BET: GB -3.5 (44.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Packers: One of many hallmarks of coordinator Jeff Hafley’s protection is deception: attempting to get the quarterback to suppose one factor is coming however bringing one other. That may not work towards Aaron Rodgers. “I do not actually suppose the disguise goes to be doing issues for him,” mentioned CB Keisean Nixon, who had a one-year overlap with Rodgers in Inexperienced Bay. “There’s nothing he hasn’t seen.” — Rob Demovsky
What we’re listening to on the Steelers: One participant might spoil Rodgers’ much-hyped recreation towards his former staff: Micah Parsons. The cross rusher’s affect has elevated weekly, as he recorded his first profession three-sack recreation in Week 7. The Steelers’ offensive line, in the meantime, has stored Rodgers pretty clear. After being sacked seven occasions in his first two video games, Rodgers has taken simply two sacks up to now three video games. “I am extra snug once I’m staying clear,” Rodgers mentioned this week. “The one deal with I had the opposite evening was Broderick [Jones]. Aside from that, I am feeling fairly good.” — Brooke Pryor
Stat to know: The Steelers have seven or fewer factors within the first quarter of 56 consecutive video games, which is the longest energetic streak within the NFL. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Steelers TE Darnell Washington will report a career-high six targets (or extra). Not solely do TEs obtain the next proportion of the targets on the Steelers (36%) than some other staff, however 24% of targets towards the Packers go to the place, fourth highest amongst defenses. — Walder
0:56
How disappointing is the Steelers’ protection?
Jeff Saturday criticizes the Steelers’ protection for permitting 33 factors towards the Bengals.
Accidents: Packers | Steelers
Fantasy nugget: QB Jordan Love, WR Romeo Doubs, TE Tucker Kraft and the remainder of the Packers’ passing recreation are arrange for fulfillment. The Steelers’ protection permits the fifth-most fantasy factors per recreation to QBs, the sixth most to WRs and the third most to TEs. With a Packers offensive line that ranks fifth in cross block win fee (67.6%), Love ought to have loads of time to ship the soccer to his playmakers. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Packers are 0-3 ATS on the street this season. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Packers 23, Steelers 20
Moody’s choose: Steelers 23, Packers 20
Walder’s choose: Packers 30, Steelers 19
FPI prediction: GB, 55.2% (by a median of 1.9 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Coach LaFleur: Packers targeted on Steelers, not Rodgers … QB Rodgers: Taking part in Packers ‘not a revenge recreation’
Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET | ESPN | Matchup score: 82.4/100
ESPN BET: KC -11.5 (47.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Commanders: The Commanders’ protection continues to battle. It not solely cannot cease anybody, nevertheless it has pressured solely three takeaways this season. Prior to now 4 weeks, Washington’s protection ranks twenty eighth in scoring and twenty ninth in whole yardage. Coach Dan Quinn mentioned the staff has tweaked points of the protection however that he didn’t foresee modifications to the beginning lineup. The purpose, Quinn mentioned, is to get the protection to play sooner. “It is a good course of to undergo however the consequence needs to be on the sector,” Quinn mentioned. He added that the purpose is much less hesitation, “which will increase pace, which will increase the power to go run and hit. That is the target.” — John Keim
What we’re listening to on the Chiefs: Led by QB Patrick Mahomes, the Chiefs have averaged 31.5 factors per recreation over their previous 4 video games, which has allowed the protection to get loads of breaks. The most important instance occurred final week, when the Chiefs had 30 first downs and the Raiders had simply 30 performs on offense. “Clearly, it helps us rather a lot,” LB Nick Bolton mentioned. “I used to be simply joking round with these guys. Simply do not rating in three minutes. Hold the eight-minute, nine-minute drives on the market, so we’re at all times contemporary. However yeah, man, scoring factors, man, I believe it is giving us numerous juice.” — Nate Taylor
Stat to know: The Commanders have transformed 25 of 32 fourth-down makes an attempt (78%) beneath Quinn since 2024. That is the most effective conversion fee within the NFL over that span, although they’re changing at a 55.6% clip this season (nineteenth). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Chiefs RB Isiah Pacheco will report a season-high 17 or extra rush makes an attempt. The Commanders have a run-inducing protection with a minus-7% cross fee over expectation. With Kareem Hunt banged up with an ankle harm final week, that might imply extra carries for Pacheco. — Walder
Accidents: Commanders | Chiefs
Fantasy nugget: Mahomes has scored 26 or extra fantasy factors in 4 straight video games since WR Xavier Worthy’s return from a shoulder harm. The Chiefs averaged simply 96.0 yards after the catch per recreation via their first three contests, however that quantity has jumped to 164.0 over the previous 4. With WR Rashee Rice again within the combine, Mahomes now faces a Commanders protection that enables the sixth-most fantasy factors per recreation to QBs. See Week 8 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Commanders are 1-6 ATS of their previous seven street video games. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Chiefs 27, Commanders 10
Moody’s choose: Chiefs 28, Commanders 20
Walder’s choose: Chiefs 31, Commanders 24
FPI prediction: KC, 74.6% (by a median of 9.8 factors)
Matchup must-reads: QB Daniels dominated out vs. Chiefs with hamstring harm; Mariota to begin … Chiefs DT Norman-Lott out for season with torn ACL … Commanders DE Armstrong out for season with knee harm … How Chiefs grew to become the kings of fourth down this season
