The Week 8 NFL Slate: Rivalries, Returns, and a Script Shocker Coming
From Rodgers facing his old team to the Broncos-Cowboys blockbuster, Week 8 delivers storylines, chaos, and one upset that’s about to break a streak. Edition #303
We’ve got some very interesting games to look out for in this week’s slate of games. Jaxson Dart and Cam Skattebo lead the New York Giants as they face the Philadelphia Eagles at the Linc. Meanwhile, the Broncos play the Cowboys in what is the biggest game of the week.
Let’s get into it.
Early Window
No international football this week, meaning we start at 1 PM EST. There are a few interesting games on tap, but three really catch my eye in this window.
Dolphins vs Falcons
I’ve hesitated to talk about the Dolphins during my NFL coverage, but I might not be able to avoid it much longer. Miami is getting close to completely blowing it up. Mike McDaniel is definitely gone after this season, but honestly, if they lose this one, he should be gone right after the game.
Tua hasn’t played up to what he’s supposed to either. He threw three interceptions against the Browns, and now he faces a Falcons defense that’s been quietly elite. Atlanta is allowing the fewest passing yards per game (141.2) and second-fewest total yards per game (265.2) this season. That’s not exactly the kind of defense you want to see when your confidence is shaky.
If Miami loses here, the conversation turns from “What’s wrong with the Dolphins?” to “What’s next for them?” The front office will have serious decisions to make about Tua’s future and the team’s entire offensive identity.
Eagles vs Giants
The Giants are looking for their first series sweep against the Eagles since 2007. It’s been that long.
But this one’s going to be tough. The Eagles don’t want to let the Giants roll into the Linc and pull it off. You can bet Philly still remembers the loss earlier this season — they’ll come out swinging. For Jaxson Dart and Cam Skattebo, this is a real test: going up against a Philly defense that’s been inconsistent but still has one of the most disruptive front sevens in football.
If the Giants can get this done, it’s not just another win — it’s a statement that this team is truly back in the NFC East race.
Bills vs Panthers
It’s hard to believe, but the Bills are 4-2 and the Panthers are 4-3.
The Bills have had trouble stopping the run all year long. They’ve surrendered 5.8 yards per rushing attempt through six games — and only one NFL team has ever had a higher full-season average of rush yards allowed. The 1934 Cincinnati Reds gave up 6.4 yards per attempt.
That’s brutal, and it’s not going to get any easier this week. Carolina’s backfield duo of Rico Dowdle and Chuba Hubbard has quietly been one of the most productive in the league. Expect the Panthers to lean on the run early and often to test Buffalo’s discipline up front.
That said, Sean McDermott is 8-0 after a bye week — the most wins by any coach after a bye without a loss in NFL history. History says Buffalo bounces back. But sometimes the script says otherwise…
Script Shocker
Alright, I was just talking about this game, and I definitely think this is the one that surprises everyone. I mean, it surprises me too — and I’ve watched enough football between these two teams to know what both are capable of.
Give me the Panthers over the Bills.
It’s not Bryce Young starting this time. It’s the veteran Andy Dalton, and he loves throwing the ball downfield. With Bills starting safety Taylor Rapp ruled out, be ready for a lot of deep shots — and I think those are going to connect.
Like I said above, the run is going to be key. But another major factor will be getting the pass rush going. Carolina’s offensive line has played very well through these first few games, and if they can give Dalton time to attack the middle of the field, it’s game on. Guarding Dalton Kincaid well is also crucial; he’s quietly become a go-to option for Buffalo’s offense.
I’m calling it right now — the Panthers take this one, and McDermott’s streak ends here.
Game of the Day: Broncos vs Cowboys
Has to be, right?
The Broncos have a very good defense, and the Cowboys have one of the best offenses in the league. This being America’s Game of the Week makes perfect sense.
Look at Bo Nix’s split numbers:
In the fourth quarters against the Eagles and Giants, and the first quarter against the Jets, he completed 35 of 46 passes for 389 yards and 4 TDs, plus two rushing scores.
In the other nine quarters, 35 of 73 (below 50 %) for 306 yards and zero scores.
That’s the story of a young QB learning how to close — but struggling to stay consistent.
The Broncos are heating up coming into this game, and if their defense steps up like it has recently, they have a real chance to control the tempo. For Dallas, this game will be all about protecting Dak Prescott and establishing the run early. If they can’t, the Broncos’ pass rush could wreck the rhythm.
And if you’re asking me what the script says? It says the Broncos’ defense shows up big.
Rodgers → Home
Steelers vs Packers on Sunday Night Football. Aaron Rodgers faces the Green Bay Packers, the team he spent 18 seasons with, now as the quarterback of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Rodgers is having the season of his life right now: 1,270 yards, 14 touchdowns, 5 interceptions, and a 105 passer rating. The Packers are 4-1-1, and the Steelers are 4-2 — both in the thick of the playoff race.
Christian Watson is active and could see significant snaps against the Steelers, adding another emotional wrinkle to an already wild night.
But here’s the big headline: Aaron Rodgers announced that when he retires, he’ll do it as a Packer. For the fans back in Green Bay, that one’s going to hit deep.
MONNNNNDAAAAYYYY NIGHT
Chiefs vs Commanders.
Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel are active for Washington, giving the Commanders their full WR group again. Both teams are fighting their way back into the postseason picture — the Commanders 3-4, the Chiefs 4-3 — and both desperately need this one to stay in the hunt.
Kansas City’s offense has been inconsistent, while Washington has flashed some serious potential on defense, but they’ve also given up way too many big plays. Expect Mahomes to test that secondary deep early, and expect Marcus Mariota to respond with some of his own downfield shots to McLaurin.
This might quietly be one of the better Monday night games we’ve had in a while.
