CBS Sports has released its bold predictions for NFL Week 8, highlighting several key storylines and player performances that could shape the upcoming slate of games.
Colts may split Jonathan Taylor's reps
The Indianapolis Colts, sitting at 2-5, have begun trading away veteran pieces ahead of the November 10 deadline, sending left guard Quenton Nelson to the Seattle Seahawks and pass rusher DeForest Buckner to the San Francisco 49ers for draft compensation. Running back Jonathan Taylor, who has rushed for 587 yards and eight touchdowns through seven games in 2026, is also the subject of trade rumors. To protect their asset, the Colts may reduce Taylor's workload, which has averaged over 20 touches per game. In Week 7, Taylor played a season-low 67.2% of offensive snaps with 18 carries, while backup Seth McGowan saw a season-high 32.8% snap share and 11 carries. That trend could continue as the deadline approaches. Taylor's over/under rushing yards total is set at 63.5.
Lamar Jackson expected to show no rust
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson returns from a three-game absence due to an ankle injury for a Sunday matchup against the Buffalo Bills. Before the injury, Jackson was playing at an MVP level, posting a 70.8% completion rate, 10.1 yards per attempt, and a 119.6 passer rating through four games — all on pace for career highs. The Bills defense enters Week 8 allowing 386.8 total yards per game (second-most in the NFL) and 28.5 points per game (third-most), ranking 30th in points per drive and 27th on third down. Jackson's over/under passing touchdown total is 1.5, and his passing yards over/under is 237.5.
T.J. Hockenson could haul in two touchdowns
Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson faces a Detroit Lions defense that has allowed the most receptions (56) and receiving yards (602) to tight ends this season, along with a league-high 10 receiving touchdowns to the position. The Lions also allow touchdowns on 72% of opponents' red zone trips, the fifth-highest rate in the league. Hockenson leads the Vikings with six red zone targets and two touchdowns. His odds to score one anytime touchdown are +230, and +2000 for two or more touchdowns.
Antonio Williams poised for breakout
With Washington Commanders' top receiver Terry McLaurin lost for the season, rookie wideout Antonio Williams could see an expanded role in Sunday's primetime game against the Philadelphia Eagles. Williams led the receiver room with 34 routes run in Week 6 after McLaurin's exit, 31 of those in the second through fourth quarters. The Eagles are allowing 239.9 passing yards per game, the seventh-highest in the NFL.
Falcons could jump to NFC South lead
The Atlanta Falcons (4-4, 2-1 in division) can move into first place in the NFC South with a win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and a Green Bay Packers victory over the Carolina Panthers on Thursday night. The Panthers (3-3) are 3.5-point underdogs at Green Bay. Tampa Bay is 0-4 at home, and quarterback Baker Mayfield will face a Falcons defense that ranks fourth in fewest rushing yards allowed and fourth in pressure rate. A Falcons-Packers moneyline parlay is listed at +229.
