The Bills have proven themselves as serious Super Bowl contenders, plus other key takeaways from Week 8

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FOX Sports’ NFL experts share key takeaways from every Week 8 Sunday game and what they mean for each team’s future.

Eagles:

This victory feels like a turning point for Philadelphia’s season. With a healthier offense, A.J. Brown and Devonta Smith dominated the Bengals’ secondary, and Jalen Hurts has regained his top form after a rocky start. Despite earlier setbacks—including a tense moment when Nick Sirianni responded to fans’ frustrations—the Eagles have shown resilience. Though the Bengals entered with momentum, the Eagles surged in the second half with 20 unanswered points, proving they’ve worked out their issues. Philadelphia remains a strong contender for the top spot in their division, even as the Commanders push forward.

Bengals:

The absence of Joe Mixon is clearly felt. While the Bengals opted to allocate resources elsewhere, they haven’t adequately replaced Mixon’s production. Chase Brown lacks Mixon’s explosiveness as a runner and isn’t nearly as effective in the passing game. Joe Burrow is performing at an MVP level, but he’s receiving minimal support from his ground game and defense. Ironically, Mixon has greatly boosted Houston’s offense, which has also faced injuries among its top receivers.

Jets:

It’s clear now that Robert Saleh wasn’t the issue with the Jets; the struggles lie with Aaron Rodgers and their ineffective offense. Changing play-callers from Nathaniel Hackett to Todd Downing hasn’t fixed the problem. Despite the wealth of talent at the skill positions, the Jets lack a coherent plan, continue making costly mistakes, and often seem disorganized. They burned three timeouts in the first quarter alone because of alignment issues and later even took a delay-of-game penalty on a two-point attempt—an astounding error. Rodgers (17 of 28, 233 yards, 2 TDs) still shows flashes but appears less consistent and seems to be slowing down.

Patriots:

QB Drake Maye’s concussion could spell trouble for the Patriots, as this season is focused on developing their future franchise quarterback. However, he’s surrounded by a struggling roster, which limits his growth potential. Apart from tight end Hunter Henry, Maye lacks reliable targets, the offensive line is subpar, and the run game is ineffective. This is common for rookie quarterbacks on rebuilding teams, but the Patriots are especially weak and have a realistic chance of securing the No. 1 pick in the upcoming draft, with or without Maye.

Ravens:

The Ravens aren’t going to dominate every game, and Cleveland’s aggressive secondary made it tough on them here. However, Baltimore could have had an easier time if they’d utilized Derrick Henry more. Out of 62 plays, they only gave him the ball 11 times (17.7%), despite the game remaining within three points until the final minutes. Henry averaged 7.1 yards on his first 10 carries, a sign they should’ve kept feeding him. This misstep was reminiscent of last year’s AFC Championship, where abandoning the run cost them. It’s a reminder that sticking with the run could be crucial in close games going forward.

Browns:

It was hardly a surprise to see the Browns offense improve with Jameis Winston stepping in for the injured Deshaun Watson. While offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey calling plays has been helpful, Winston’s current skill level is the real boost. With a stronger arm, accuracy (27 of 41, 334 yards, 3 touchdowns, no interceptions), and poise in the pocket, Winston effectively pushed the ball downfield, sealing the game with a 38-yard touchdown pass to Cedric Tillman with 59 seconds left. If only his receivers were more reliable at catching the ball, the Browns’ offensive output could be even higher. Though they’re still bound by Watson’s costly contract for the next two years, Winston gave a glimpse of the offense’s potential if a change could be made.

Falcons:

Kirk Cousins’ play has been inconsistent over his first eight games with Atlanta, but his performances against the Buccaneers have underscored his impact. Cousins has thrown for eight touchdowns in his two games against Tampa Bay, leading to an overtime comeback in one game and a decisive win in the other, which now puts the Falcons at the top of the NFC South. While his output against other teams has been modest (eight TDs against Tampa versus six in six other games), Atlanta now holds a one-game lead with the head-to-head tiebreaker, forcing the Bucs to fight to regain their spot in the division race.

Buccaneers:

While injuries to Mike Evans and Chris Godwin have hurt the Bucs, it’s Tampa Bay’s defense that has seen a dramatic decline. After holding their first four opponents to 26 points or fewer in a 3-1 start, they’ve since allowed at least 27 points in three of four losses. Cousins, in particular, capitalized on defensive lapses, throwing for four touchdowns in each matchup. Injuries to players like SirVocea Dennis and Jamel Dean have been setbacks, but the defensive scheme has also struggled, leaving Baker Mayfield to press harder and leading to turnovers—seven interceptions in the last four games after just two in the first four. Tampa’s next two games against the Chiefs and 49ers will test their resilience.

Cardinals:

Kicker Chad Ryland nailed his third game-winning field goal this season, a 34-yarder that secured Arizona’s 28-27 win and brought them to 4-4. Beyond Ryland’s clutch performance, the growing connection between Kyler Murray and rookie Marvin Harrison Jr. was even more promising. Harrison, adjusting to NFL defenses, had six catches for 111 yards and a touchdown on Sunday, including critical plays that helped secure the win. With back-to-back home games against the Bears and Jets before the bye, Arizona’s offense has time to keep improving this valuable Murray-Harrison connection.

Dolphins:

After missing four games due to a concussion from Week 2, Tua Tagovailoa returned with minimal rust, revitalizing Miami’s offense. However, Tagovailoa fumbled three times, including a mishandled snap that resulted in a safety and ultimately cost them against Arizona. Miami’s offense, which had been averaging just 10 points per game without him, put up 27 points, showing their potential if Tua stays healthy. Now at 2-5, the Dolphins could still make a push in the second half, but Tagovailoa must protect the ball and stay on the field.

Packers:

Matt LaFleur deserves recognition for Coach of the Year, especially given Green Bay’s success with multiple quarterbacks. Jordan Love, still recovering from a knee injury, struggled with mobility in this game, prompting the Packers to replace him with Malik Willis in the third quarter. Willis, one of the NFL’s most efficient QBs in expected points added, quickly adjusted to LaFleur’s flexible playcalling, which adapts to each quarterback’s strengths. Despite Love’s injury, the Packers are 6-2, and LaFleur’s adaptability has been central to their success.

Jaguars

Doug Pederson faced criticism for poor clock management once again. He opted not to go for a two-point conversion after his team’s final touchdown, which ultimately proved inconsequential. His defense was unprepared for the Packers’ final drive, missing a prime chance to secure an upset against a Green Bay team with a banged-up quarterback situation. Trevor Lawrence continues to make too many costly mistakes, a concern that reflects back on Pederson, who was expected to help elevate Lawrence’s game. Neither coach nor quarterback is living up to expectations, leading to speculation about potential changes in Jacksonville. — Henry McKenna

Colts

Jonathan Taylor must become a key player if the Colts hope to compete in the AFC this season. Anthony Richardson’s inexperience was evident during Indianapolis’s final drive, showcasing his issues with touch, timing, and anticipation on intermediate throws, which makes the Colts too reliant on deep passes. While discussions of benching Richardson for Joe Flacco are premature—given Richardson’s limited experience—Taylor’s strong performance against Houston (20 carries for 105 yards and a touchdown) is crucial. A healthy Taylor, alongside a defense boosted by DeForest Buckner’s return, is Indianapolis’s best shot at being a contender in January.

Texans

Despite their 6-2 record, the Texans face significant playoff challenges due to their pass protection issues. C.J. Stroud was heavily pressured on Sunday, continuing a season-long trend. Although the Colts only registered two sacks, they managed nine quarterback hits and numerous pressures, leading to Stroud being pressured on an alarming 71.4% of his dropbacks in the first half. This pressure affected his decision-making and led to rushed throws, raising concerns about how they would fare against stronger AFC teams like Kansas City and Buffalo in the postseason. Relying solely on Joe Mixon will not be enough for Houston. — Ben Arthur

Titans

It’s difficult to see how the Titans can get worse after a disheartening defeat. Initially, Mason Rudolph and the offense held their ground against the dominant Lions, tying the game after an early touchdown. However, they ultimately fell 52-14, despite Jared Goff’s underwhelming passing performance. The Lions exploited Tennessee’s quarterback troubles, winning without fully utilizing Goff. Adding insult to injury, former Titans draft pick Malik Willis led a game-winning drive for the Packers. With a 1-6 record, the Titans face another disappointing season.

Lions

Are the Lions the best team in the NFL? They have dominated their last four games, winning by an average margin of 23 points. Even with a narrow win over Minnesota, they have overwhelmed opponents like the Cowboys and Seahawks. In their latest game against the Titans, they managed to win convincingly while minimizing Goff’s involvement, as he completed just 15 passes. Instead, they focused on the ground game, racking up 164 rushing yards. The Lions seem to be firing on all cylinders, making their success look effortless. — Carmen Vitali

Panthers

Despite low expectations, the Panthers’ 1-7 record feels disappointing. Bryce Young returned as the starter and managed to throw a touchdown pass—his first since last Christmas—but Carolina fell behind early against a rookie quarterback. He threw a second touchdown late in the game, marking just his third multi-touchdown game. The team’s struggles leave little to celebrate, reinforcing the feeling that this year is a continuation of last season’s challenges.

Broncos

In a rookie showcase, Denver’s Bo Nix shone against the Panthers, throwing for three touchdowns and rushing for another. He has improved significantly since his rocky start, throwing eight touchdown passes with only one interception over the past six games, alongside three rushing touchdowns. While the Broncos’ defense deserves credit for their 5-3 record, Nix’s performance offers promise for the future. Competing for a wild card spot with a rookie quarterback exceeds initial expectations. — Greg Auman

Saints

Missing Derek Carr has proven detrimental for the Saints, who have lost six straight games. Even when their defense keeps opponents in check, like against the Chargers, the offense has struggled to score. New Orleans has now had four games this season with 14 points or fewer, a mark only Carolina can top. If they fail to win against the struggling Panthers, it may signal the end for head coach Dennis Allen.

Chargers

Los Angeles took a gamble by moving on from key players like Keenan Allen and Mike Williams, but rookie Ladd McConkey has emerged as a valuable asset, scoring two touchdowns and amassing 111 receiving yards in the victory over the Saints. While the Chargers’ 4-3 record is not particularly overwhelming, McConkey has four touchdowns in his first seven games, matching the total of eight other receivers taken before him in the draft. — Greg Auman

Seahawks

In a challenging matchup against the Bills, Seattle’s new head coach Mike Macdonald’s team struggled against a stronger opponent. With 11 penalties for 82 yards and only 233 total yards, the Seahawks fell short in their third consecutive home loss. At 4-4, tied with Arizona for the NFC West lead, they face another tough game against the Rams next week. New offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb will need to adjust the strategy to utilize their running game more effectively after a dismal rushing performance against Buffalo. — Eric D. Williams

Chiefs

The Chiefs continue to win by grinding it out. Despite injuries impacting their skill positions, Kansas City’s defense stepped up on Sunday, even after a Patrick Mahomes interception gave the Raiders a prime scoring opportunity. They didn’t achieve any long plays, as their longest reception was just 25 yards, and they had no runs longer than 14 yards. However, their ability to finish is crucial for a team aiming for a historic three-peat, as five of their seven wins this season have come by a single score.

Raiders

The Raiders need to prioritize finding their future quarterback in the offseason, along with addressing their struggling running game. They entered the game against the Chiefs with the third-worst rushing offense and only managed 33 net rushing yards. In a game where they could have competed, they failed to convert opportunities into points, ending the third quarter with 13 consecutive plays deep in Chiefs territory but only managed a field goal. Without a consistent rushing attack, their chances of winning diminish significantly. — Ben Arthur

Bears

The Bears’ recent progress has hit a snag after a solid stretch of wins, now facing a setback against the Commanders. Although rookie quarterback Caleb Williams managed to pull off a last-minute lead, it wasn’t enough as Washington secured a dramatic victory with a last-second Hail Mary. Despite the disappointing outcome, fans can take solace in the team’s resilience and the potential for continued growth.

Commanders

Dubbed the “Maryland Miracle,” Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels, who was a game-time decision due to injury, delivered a stunning 65-yard Hail Mary to win the game. Daniels has shown significant improvement week by week, gaining confidence as the season progresses. His ability to make crucial plays and maintain composure under pressure has helped propel Washington to the top of the division, suggesting that both rookie quarterbacks could lead their teams to exciting futures. — Carmen Vitali

Cowboys

Dak Prescott’s recent struggles include throwing two interceptions in each of the last three games, a concerning trend exacerbated by a lack of offensive support. With only CeeDee Lamb as a reliable target and a faltering run game, Prescott has been forced to make risky throws, leading to a total of nine interceptions through seven games, with his career-worst total of 15 within reach.

49ers

On National Tight Ends Day, George Kittle showcased his elite talent by catching six passes for 128 yards and a touchdown, essential for the 49ers, who are dealing with significant injuries. Kittle’s speed and skills make him a tough matchup, allowing the 49ers to remain competitive despite missing key players. However, their success still hinges on the return of Deebo Samuel and consistent production from their running backs. — Ralph Vacchiano

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