Key Highlights
- The Dallas Cowboys face the Denver Broncos in a matchup of one of the league’s top offenses and defenses.
- Aaron Rodgers faces his former team, the Green Bay Packers, against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
- The Philadelphia Eagles and Buffalo Bills are discussed as potential upset contenders.
- The Kansas City Chiefs are seen as having rediscovered their offensive mojo after a poor start.
NFL Roundtable Discussion: Week 8 Highlights
As the NFL enters its eighth week of action, our panel of experts from The Athletic delves into key matchups and team dynamics. Jeff Howe, Zak Keefer, and Mike Sando share their insights on games like Dallas Cowboys vs. Denver Broncos, Packers facing Aaron Rodgers in Green Bay, and whether the Philadelphia Eagles or Buffalo Bills should be on upset alert.
Key Matchups and Team Dynamics
The debate centers around the Dallas Cowboys (arguably having the league’s best offense) versus the Denver Broncos (arguably boasting one of the best defenses). Jeff Howe notes that turnovers could be decisive, while Mike Sando emphasizes the importance of sustaining defensive improvement.
Quarterback Challenges
The conversation turns to quarterback quandaries, specifically with the New York Jets and Miami Dolphins. Zak Keefer believes Tyrod Taylor’s inclusion won’t save either team. He also questions whether the Dolphins should evaluate Zach Wilson over Tua Tagovailoa, who has been performing better than his backups.
Upset Alert: Eagles vs. Giants, Bills vs. Panthers
The experts discuss potential upsets in games like the Philadelphia Eagles (vs. New York Giants) and Buffalo Bills (at Carolina Panthers). While both teams have shown progress, Keefer is cautiously optimistic about the Panthers’ chances due to the return of star quarterback Bryce Young.
Redemption for the Kansas City Chiefs
The discussion shifts to the Kansas City Chiefs, who are seen as having rediscovered their offensive prowess after a challenging start. Mike Sando highlights that five consecutive games with positive expected points added (EPA) on offense ties the longest streak of the Mahomes era in Kansas City.
Commanders’ Struggles
The panel also addresses the Washington Commanders, who are facing concerns after a string of losses and Jayden Daniels’ injuries. Howe notes that the team’s upcoming schedule is daunting with games against the Seahawks and Lions, making playoff hopes slim despite being 3-4.
Conclusion
The NFL Week 8 roundtable at The Athletic offers deep insights into current trends, potential upsets, and ongoing storylines across the league. As teams navigate their seasons, fans will be watching closely to see how these key matchups play out.
