NFL Week 8 Betting Guide: Predictions and Picks Against the Spread
Analysis and predictions for all of the NFL's Week 8 matchups, with a focus on betting lines and potential upsets.
As the NFL season progresses into Week 8, The New York Post offers its expert predictions and betting picks against the spread for every game.
New York Jets vs. Las Vegas Raiders
The author expresses frustration with the New York Jets' consistent struggles, noting a trend of being outscored late in halves and a 5-19 record under defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn. Despite a roster with playmaking talent, the offense has been capped at 25 points per game. The prediction favors the Raiders +1.5, citing the Jets' defense's recent struggles against tight ends and the Raiders' potential to score.
Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Indianapolis Colts
The Jaguars are heavily favored at -9.5 points. The line has increased significantly as the Colts have begun trading key players, signaling a potential shift in focus for the team. With Jacksonville rested after a bye and playing at home, the Jaguars are expected to maintain their strong performance at Everbank Stadium.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Atlanta Falcons
The Buccaneers, now 2-5 after starting 0-4, are predicted to have an edge. Their defense and special teams have contributed crucial points in recent games. Despite the Falcons' win over the 49ers, Tampa Bay is seen as a "buzzsaw" opponent, especially with Baker Mayfield having had time to adjust and Bucky Irving performing well.
Detroit Lions vs. Minnesota Vikings
The Lions are favored by 3.5 points against the Vikings. While Minnesota has been strong defensively, allowing an average of 10.4 points over their last five wins, the Lions' offense is seen as capable of breaking through. The prediction leans towards Detroit, despite potential concerns about Jahmyr Gibbs's health, highlighting Jameson Williams and Amon-Ra St. Brown as key offensive threats.
Cincinnati Bengals vs. Tennessee Titans
This matchup features a significant spread of -11.5 for the Bengals. The Titans' decision to trade defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons is expected to impact the team's morale and performance. The Bengals are projected to score enough points to cover the large spread, with a call for Joe Burrow to deliver a more consistent performance over two halves.
Buffalo Bills vs. Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens are seen as a potential upset pick, taking the points at +3. Lamar Jackson's return is expected to energize the Ravens' operation. With recent Bills games decided by three points, this matchup is anticipated to be close, favoring Baltimore with the points.
Dallas Cowboys vs. Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals are predicted to cover the +7 spread against the Cowboys. Arizona has a strong recent history against Dallas, winning four consecutive matchups this decade and holding an 8-1 record since 2008. The short week for the Cowboys following a Monday night game is also a factor.
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Cleveland Browns
The Browns, getting 3.5 points, are favored to cover based on their previous 27-24 victory over the Steelers. A notable trend highlighted is that no team playing in Europe this season has covered the spread in the following week without a bye. This suggests a disadvantage for the Steelers.
Los Angeles Rams vs. Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers are predicted to cover the +6.5 spread. The author believes the Chargers, who are not actively tanking or trading away players, will show pride in this matchup against their SoFi Stadium co-tenants. This is seen as an opportunity for them to start turning their season around.
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Denver Broncos
The Broncos, taking +1.5 points, are favored to win at home. Denver has won three consecutive games since Sean Payton took over offensive play-calling and has a three-season winning streak against the Chiefs at Mile High. The return of Patrick Surtain II is expected to challenge Patrick Mahomes.
New England Patriots vs. Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins, receiving +6.5 points, are highlighted for their historical success against the Patriots in Miami, holding a 10-3 record both straight up and against the spread over the past 13 seasons. The spread's decrease from 7.5 after the Dolphins' win against the Jets suggests a favorable position for the underdog.
Washington Commanders vs. Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles, getting +6.5 points, are seen as a potential value bet despite being battered and playing on a short week. The prediction suggests they might perform better against a division rival, with quarterback Tanner McKee expected to show improvement.
Monday Night Football: Seattle Seahawks vs. Chicago Bears
The Bears' acquisition of Jeffery Simmons from the Titans is highlighted as a significant move, potentially boosting team morale and their championship aspirations, even if he doesn't play immediately. The Seahawks have also bolstered their roster by acquiring Quenton Nelson. The game is anticipated to be a competitive battle, with the Bears taking +3 points.
Best bets for Week 8 include the Bengals, Buccaneers, and Lions. The author's "lock of the week" is the Bengals. Last week, the author went 7-6-1 overall and 1-2 on best bets.