Key Matchups, Predictions for the Cowboys-Broncos Showdown and More

Lamar Jackson’s return makes Baltimore a viable bet to cover the -6.5 spread at home against a Bears run defense ranked 31st; punters should favor the Ravens if Jackson is cleared. Also watch Bills-Panthers for live value — if Buffalo can't jump ahead early, Carolina’s rushing attack could make the Panthers attractive as an underdog cover.

NFL Week 8: Playoff Races Start to Take Shape

Week 8 brings several matchups with real playoff implications. From Lamar Jackson’s status in Baltimore to a revenge storyline in Green Bay, each game could reshape seeding and futures-market sentiment. Below are five games to watch, with key matchups, stats, and a straight-up prediction for bettors and fans.

Bears (4–2) at Ravens (1–5) — Baltimore -6.5

Key matchup: Derrick Henry and Lamar Jackson vs. Chicago’s run defense Key stat: Bears allow 5.3 yards per carry (31st) Date, Time, TV: 1 p.m. ET Sunday, CBS

Baltimore returns from a bye likely with Lamar Jackson back after a hamstring absence. If Jackson is healthy, expect the Ravens to resurrect a ground-first plan that has produced strong efficiency even while Jackson missed time. Derrick Henry has begun to find consistency, and Chicago’s run defense has been porous all season. Home-field advantage and Jackson’s mobility give Baltimore a clear path to control the clock and tempo.

Prediction: Ravens 30, Bears 21

Bills (4–2) at Panthers (4–3) — Buffalo -7

Key matchup: Rico Dowdle and Chuba Hubbard vs. Buffalo’s run defense Key stat: Bills permit 5.8 yards per carry (worst in NFL) Date, Time, TV: 1 p.m. ET Sunday, CBS

Carolina’s recent surge has been built on a productive run game; when the Panthers succeed on the ground they limit opposing possessions and play to defensive strengths. With Bryce Young out and Andy Dalton starting, Carolina will lean on Dowdle and Hubbard to keep Buffalo’s offense off the field. Buffalo’s answer is to force points early with Josh Allen and a multi-dimensional offense; if the Bills fail to build a lead, the Panthers’ rushing attack can flip the script.

Prediction: Bills 30, Panthers 24

49ers (5–2) at Texans (2–4) — Houston -1.5

Key matchup: Christian McCaffrey vs. Houston’s linebackers Key stat: McCaffrey leads NFL with 981 total yards Date, Time, TV: 1 p.m. ET Sunday, FOX

San Francisco has sustained elite production despite significant injury absences, largely because Christian McCaffrey is the engine. McCaffrey’s receiving role compounds matchup problems for Houston’s linebackers. If the Texans can limit McCaffrey and force other pass catchers into tough matchups, they can slow the 49ers; otherwise, San Francisco’s balanced attack and depth should prevail on the road.

Prediction: 49ers 17, Texans 9

Cowboys (3–3–1) at Broncos (5–2) — Denver -3

Key matchup: Broncos’ pass rush vs. Cowboys’ offensive line Key stat: Denver has sacks on 13.3% of dropbacks (league best) Date, Time, TV: 4:25 p.m. ET Sunday, FOX

This pits the NFL’s top offense against its top pass-rushing unit. Dallas averages a league-high yardage and points, led by an efficient Dak Prescott, while Denver has produced an unprecedented sack rate at home. The Cowboys’ offensive line has been stingy on sacks allowed, but Denver’s relentless pressure and home crowd noise could tilt the game. Keep an eye on protection and whether Denver can turn pressure into turnovers.

Prediction: Cowboys 27, Broncos 23

Packers (4–1–1) at Steelers (4–2) — Green Bay -3 (Sunday Night)

Key matchup: Packers’ passing attack vs. Steelers’ secondary Key stat: Pittsburgh ranks 31st in pass defense (258.8 yards allowed/game) Date, Time, TV: 8:20 p.m. ET Sunday, NBC

The national spotlight on Aaron Rodgers’ return to face Green Bay is secondary to the in-game matchup: Jordan Love’s efficient passing vs. a struggling Steelers secondary. Green Bay’s passing attack ranks inside the top half in yards and is efficient in yards per attempt. If Pittsburgh can’t tighten down its coverage, Green Bay could put up enough yardage for a road win and extend questions about the Steelers’ pass defense.

Prediction: Packers 26, Steelers 21

Betting Takeaways

Lamar Jackson’s availability is the most actionable development for bettors — his return materially increases Baltimore’s upside against a weak Bears run defense. Buffalo’s early drive ability will determine market value in Bills-Panthers; if Buffalo struggles to score early, expect live money on Carolina. In pass-rush vs. pass-protection matchups (Broncos-Cowboys), monitor injury reports and line moves; heavy public money on the Cowboys could create value on Denver if the line drifts.

It’s the NFL’s best offense against the league’s best defense in Denver. Plus, Ravens QB Lamar Jackson will return against the red-hot Bears.

Si