🏈 Week 8 Full Matchups
(As listed by the NFL schedule for Week 8)
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Thursday, Oct 23: Minnesota Vikings at Los Angeles Chargers
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Sunday, Oct 26:
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Miami Dolphins at Atlanta Falcons
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Chicago Bears at Baltimore Ravens
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Buffalo Bills at Carolina Panthers
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New York Jets at Cincinnati Bengals
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San Francisco 49ers at Houston Texans
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Cleveland Browns at New England Patriots
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New York Giants at Philadelphia Eagles
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Tampa Bay Buccaneers at New Orleans Saints
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Dallas Cowboys at Denver Broncos
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Tennessee Titans at Indianapolis Colts
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Monday, Oct 27: Green Bay Packers at Pittsburgh Steelers
🔍 Notable Matchups & What to Watch
Ravens vs Bears (Baltimore)
This matchup jumps out because of the contrasting trajectories: the Ravens, historically a top team, have stumbled to a 1-5 start and come off a bye week, while the Bears have momentum with recent wins and a healthier roster. Early odds favour Baltimore by about 5.5 points, largely because the Ravens’ coach has an excellent post-bye record, and their quarterback (Lamar Jackson) is expected to return.
Key angles:
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Can Baltimore’s offense regain form and tempo after the bye?
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Will Chicago’s defense exploit Baltimore’s recent injury and performance issues?
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The line suggests Ravens are slightly vulnerable — a good betting narrative.
Jets vs Bengals (Cincinnati)
The Jets enter this as underdogs and are still seeking their first win in what has been a frustrating season. The Bengals, though flawed (defensively), have shown offensive flashes under backup quarterback Joe Flacco and are favourites by ~4.5 points.
Key angles:
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Jets’ offence: can they finally break through, or will it be another stagnant outing?
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Bengals’ defence has been shaky, so how will they respond under pressure?
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This could be a “get-right” game for Cincinnati, or a trap if the Jets find rhythm.
Dolphins vs Falcons (Atlanta)
A critical game for Miami’s playoff hopes — they’re off to a rough start (1-6) with major issues on offence and questionable team morale. The Falcons, at home, have a chance to stake a claim in the NFC South. The betting line has the Bucs–Saints noted too, but this matchup here offers stakes.
Key angles:
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Miami’s internal turmoil: QB play, coaching transitions, and injury impacts.
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Atlanta’s measurement game: can they seize the moment vs a vulnerable opponent?
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The larger narrative: is Miami in free-fall & facing major recalibration?
Vikings vs Chargers (Thursday Night)
Opening Week 8 on Thursday, this is a primetime clash that sets the tone for the week. The Chargers at home have a chance to rebound, while the Vikings look to build momentum. Thursday night games often favour the more prepared team, given shortened prep time.
Key angles:
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Turnaround potential for the Chargers.
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Vikings’ road performance: how do they handle a west-coast prime-time spot?
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Early weeks of the season often expose teams’ depth; this game could highlight that.