The upcoming NFL Sunday raises questions about whether the Buffalo Bills and Philadelphia Eagles should be on upset alert. After a season filled with surprises, anything can happen. The Bills, coming off a bye week, are set to face the Carolina Panthers on the road. However, they enter Week 8 after suffering two consecutive defeats, which has raised concerns about their performance. Meanwhile, the Eagles recently bounced back with a win against the Minnesota Vikings, but they will be missing star receiver A.J. Brown and will have to contend with a New York Giants team that previously defeated them.
One of the most anticipated matchups this week is between the Dallas Cowboys and the Denver Broncos. This game features two of the league's top teams, with the Cowboys boasting one of the best offenses and the Broncos fielding a formidable defense. NFL writers Jeff Howe, Mike Sando, and Zak Keefer shared their insights on what to expect in this matchup.
According to Keefer, the Broncos made headlines last week by scoring 33 points in the fourth quarter to pull off an improbable victory against the Giants. He questions how they will respond in this game, especially considering their defense, which leads the NFL in sacks, is coming off a game where they allowed a season-high 32 points. The performance of Javonte Williams, who is having a stellar season with the Cowboys, could be a difference-maker.
Sando emphasizes the importance of the Cowboys' defensive improvements over the past three games, which could dictate the outcome of the season. Dallas ranked 32nd in defensive EPA per play during the first four weeks but has shown significant improvement since then. The key will be whether they can maintain this upward trajectory.
Howe adds that turnovers will be crucial in this matchup. The Cowboys have been effective in minimizing their turnovers, while the Broncos have struggled to generate them. He believes if this pattern continues, the Cowboys are likely to come out on top.
This week also brings intriguing quarterback situations for both the New York Jets and Miami Dolphins. The Jets are considering a switch to Tyrod Taylor, while the Dolphins are sticking with Tua Tagovailoa. Keefer dismisses the idea that either quarterback can salvage their teams, suggesting that both franchises are in a state of disarray.
In Miami, the team has deteriorated over the past 16 months, transitioning from AFC contenders to a rebuilding phase. With Mike McDaniel's future as head coach in question, securing wins will be vital to stave off criticism. Sando agrees that the Dolphins should continue with Tagovailoa, as he offers the best chance for salvaging their season, while the Jets should evaluate Zach Wilson if the season continues to spiral.
As for the Eagles and Bills, Keefer notes that both teams have shown progress but are still vulnerable to upsets this Sunday. The Giants and Panthers possess the talent to pull off surprises, especially considering the Bills' recent struggles and the uncertainty surrounding Bryce Young's health.
Sando believes that both the Eagles and Bills must play with purpose to secure their victories. While the Eagles have made strides recently, they still face challenges, and the Bills must prove they can rise above their recent lackluster performances.
In another exciting matchup, Aaron Rodgers will face his former team, the Green Bay Packers, as the Pittsburgh Steelers host them on Sunday night. Despite their 4-2 record, Keefer expresses skepticism about Pittsburgh's overall strength, especially after their defense faltered against the Bengals.
Sando is intrigued by the dynamics between Rodgers and head coach Matt LaFleur, while Howe emphasizes the need for a bounce-back performance from the Packers' defense, which has struggled recently.
On Monday night, the Kansas City Chiefs will face the Washington Commanders. The Chiefs displayed encouraging signs of regaining their offensive rhythm in their recent game against the Raiders. Keefer highlights the emergence of Rashee Rice as a key player, adding depth to the offense and relieving some pressure off Patrick Mahomes.
Sando notes that Kansas City's offense has been consistently effective, achieving high EPA over the last five games. Howe adds that maintaining momentum against weaker opponents is crucial for the Chiefs, who are starting to resemble a high-powered Super Bowl contender once again.
After suffering multiple injuries, including to Jayden Daniels, Keefer expresses concern for the Commanders, suggesting they may struggle to replicate last season's success. Sando agrees, stating that the Commanders are unlikely to continue where they left off in 2024 and may need to reassess their roster in the offseason.
As Week 8 approaches, fans can expect thrilling matchups and potential upsets across the NFL. Will the Bills and Eagles rise to the occasion, or will they face unexpected challenges?
