NFL Week 8 Preview: Vikings Aim to Rebound, Key Matchups That Could Shift Standings

Minneapolis, MN – Week 8 of the NFL season is here, and fans can expect an exciting lineup of games. After a rocky previous week, where the expert picks went 5-11 against the spread, it’s time to turn the tide. Overall, the season record now sits at 51-53-3 against the spread, though straight-up picks fared better at 8-7.

Starting strong, the Minnesota Vikings look to bounce back after their first loss of the season. Coming off a disappointing performance against the Lions, the Vikings are set to face the Los Angeles Rams this Thursday at 8:15 p.m. ET on Prime Video. With hopes to regain momentum, the prediction for this matchup leans towards the Vikings, winning comfortably 27-17.

On Sunday, the Baltimore Ravens will challenge the struggling Cleveland Browns with an early game at 1 p.m. ET on CBS. Despite playing on a short week, the Ravens are favored to take down the Browns with a score of 31-17. On the same day, the Tennessee Titans will try to keep up with the explosive offense of the Detroit Lions. The Lions are poised for a significant victory at 33-17.

Another game to watch is between the Houston Texans and the Indianapolis Colts. This matchup is crucial for division standings, with the Texans predicted to win 27-20 despite recent struggles. Meanwhile, the Green Bay Packers visit the Jacksonville Jaguars, where they are expected to showcase a dominant offense, winning 31-23.

The Miami Dolphins will be looking to revitalize their attack with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa returning from injury. Facing the Arizona Cardinals, the Dolphins should secure a strong win at 29-15. The New York Jets, led by Aaron Rodgers, are predicted to overpower the New England Patriots with a score of 31-14.

As the mid-afternoon games kick off, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers face the Atlanta Falcons under tough circumstances, looking to edge out a win at 24-19. The Philadelphia Eagles battle against the Cincinnati Bengals, with the Bengals likely coming out on top at 30-20.

In the later games, the Buffalo Bills will square off against the Seattle Seahawks, and a close match is anticipated, with the Bills winning 34-28. The Chicago Bears are expected to take down the Washington Commanders 24-20, while the Denver Broncos face the Carolina Panthers and look to secure an easy win at 24-10.

The night wraps up with the Kansas City Chiefs going against the Las Vegas Raiders, expected to secure a victory at 24-10. Lastly, on Monday night, the Pittsburgh Steelers will take on the New York Giants, where the Steelers are favored to win 27-13.

This week is packed with promising matchups that could shake up standings across the league. With the season running tight, every game counts!