The 2024 NFL Season: Week 8 Picks and Predictions
As the 2024 NFL season approaches the halfway mark, fans and analysts alike are gearing up for an exciting Week 8. With no teams on bye this week, we have a full slate of 16 games to analyze, and Sporting News is eager to maintain the momentum from a successful Week 7. Let’s dive into the fearless forecasts for this week’s matchups, complete with insights and betting information.
Betting Insights and Promotions
Before we jump into the game predictions, it’s worth noting some enticing betting opportunities. For those looking to get in on the action, FanDuel is offering a fantastic promotion: Bet $5, Get $200 guaranteed. Additionally, you can explore TD scorer props and same-game parlays at both DraftKings and FanDuel. For a comprehensive look at the best NFL betting sites, check out the latest odds courtesy of Caesars Sportsbook.
Game of Midweek: Vikings at Rams
Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET, Amazon Prime Video
The Minnesota Vikings are set to face the Los Angeles Rams in what promises to be an intriguing matchup. The Vikings’ defense is looking to bounce back after a tough outing, but they must be cautious against Matthew Stafford, who excels against the blitz. With Cooper Kupp potentially returning, the Rams could pose a significant threat. However, the Vikings, led by Sam Darnold and Justin Jefferson, are expected to make enough plays to secure a narrow victory.
Pick: Vikings win 24-20 and cover the spread.
Game of the Week: Cowboys at 49ers
Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET, NBC
In a highly anticipated clash, the Dallas Cowboys visit the San Francisco 49ers. The 49ers are dealing with injuries to their receiving corps, and without Christian McCaffrey, they’ll need to adapt their offensive strategy. Brock Purdy must step up, but the Cowboys have struggled historically in this matchup. Expect a close game, but the 49ers’ defense should edge out the Cowboys.
Pick: 49ers win 23-20 but fail to cover the spread.
Lock of the Week: Broncos vs. Panthers
Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET, CBS
The Denver Broncos are heavy favorites against the Carolina Panthers. With a strong home-field advantage and a potent rushing attack led by Bo Nix and Javonte Williams, the Broncos are poised to dominate. The Panthers are likely to find themselves in a tough spot, forced to pass against a formidable Denver defense.
Pick: Broncos win 31-13 and cover the spread.
Upset of the Week: Eagles at Bengals
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS
The Philadelphia Eagles are looking to capitalize on their recent momentum against the Cincinnati Bengals. With Saquon Barkley and Jalen Hurts finding their rhythm, the Eagles can exploit the Bengals’ defensive weaknesses. Joe Burrow will put up a fight, but the Eagles’ dynamic receiving duo of A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith will prove too much for Cincinnati.
Pick: Eagles win 27-24.
Ravens at Browns
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS
The Baltimore Ravens are set to face a struggling Cleveland Browns team. With Deshaun Watson sidelined, the Ravens will focus on their ground game, utilizing Derrick Henry alongside Lamar Jackson. The Browns’ defense is reeling, and without a reliable passing game, they will struggle to keep pace.
Pick: Ravens win 30-10 and cover the spread.
Titans at Lions
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS
The Detroit Lions are heavy favorites against the Tennessee Titans. The Titans’ offense has been inconsistent, and the Lions are expected to capitalize on this at home. While the Titans’ defense may hold strong initially, they are likely to falter in the second half.
Pick: Lions win 28-17 but fail to cover the spread.
Cardinals at Dolphins
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, Fox
The Miami Dolphins are looking to regain their offensive rhythm against the Arizona Cardinals. If Tua Tagovailoa returns, the Dolphins should find success through the air with Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. The Cardinals’ defense has struggled, particularly against the run, which will play into Miami’s hands.
Pick: Dolphins win 27-20 and cover the spread.
Jets at Patriots
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS
The New York Jets are hoping to bounce back against the New England Patriots. With Aaron Rodgers back in the lineup, the Jets can establish a strong offensive presence. The Patriots, meanwhile, are facing challenges on both sides of the ball, making this a favorable matchup for New York.
Pick: Jets win 24-14 and cover the spread.
Falcons at Buccaneers
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, Fox
The Atlanta Falcons are looking to build on their recent success against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. With the Buccaneers missing key offensive players, the Falcons should be able to control the game and exploit Tampa’s weaknesses.
Pick: Falcons win 27-24.
Packers at Jaguars
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, Fox
The Green Bay Packers are set to face the Jacksonville Jaguars in a matchup that could see plenty of scoring. The Packers’ offense is expected to take advantage of the Jaguars’ secondary, while Trevor Lawrence will try to keep pace. A late turnover could be the deciding factor in this close contest.
Pick: Packers win 24-20 but fail to cover the spread.
Colts at Texans
Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET, CBS
The Indianapolis Colts are in need of a spark against the Houston Texans. With Jonathan Taylor potentially returning, the Colts could find some offensive balance. However, the Texans have been running the ball effectively and should capitalize on the Colts’ defensive vulnerabilities.
Pick: Texans win 24-14 and cover the spread.
Saints at Chargers
Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET, Fox
The Los Angeles Chargers are looking to exploit the New Orleans Saints’ defensive struggles. With a strong running game and Justin Herbert’s ability to stretch the field, the Chargers should find success against a Saints team that has been faltering.
Pick: Chargers win 26-10 and cover the spread.
Bills at Seahawks
Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET, Fox
The Buffalo Bills are set to face the Seattle Seahawks in what could be a high-scoring affair. Both teams have potent offenses, but the Bills’ late-game execution should give them the edge in a tightly contested matchup.
Pick: Bills win 27-23 and cover the spread.
Chiefs at Raiders
Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET, Fox
The Kansas City Chiefs are heavy favorites against the Las Vegas Raiders. With a strong running game and a solid defense, the Chiefs should be able to control the game and secure a comfortable victory.
Pick: Chiefs win 24-10 and cover the spread.
Bears at Commanders
Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET, CBS
The Chicago Bears are looking to bounce back against the Washington Commanders. While the Bears’ defense poses challenges, the Commanders will likely lean on their running game to establish control early.
Pick: Commanders win 26-23.
Giants at Steelers
Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET, ESPN/ABC
In the Monday night finale, the New York Giants face the Pittsburgh Steelers. With the Giants struggling offensively and the Steelers finding their rhythm, expect Pittsburgh to take advantage of the Giants’ weaknesses.
Pick: Steelers win 24-13 and cover the spread.
Stats of the Week
As we head into Week 8, it’s worth noting that last week’s record was impressive, with a straight-up record of 12-3 and an against-the-spread record of 8-7. The season-to-date records stand at 73-34 straight up and 57-49 against the spread.
With so many exciting matchups on the horizon, Week 8 promises to deliver thrilling football action and plenty of opportunities for fans and bettors alike.