2024 NFL Week 8 picks, predictions: Back home underdogs to cover

Geoff Schwartz

FOX Sports Betting Analyst

Bettors know that, currently, there are a few teams right now in the NFL that just flat out stink. 

The Patriots are one, and the Browns are another.

But somehow, I still have faith in them to hang with their opponents this weekend. 

Sounds bizarre — I know. But I’ve got my reasons.

With that in mind, let’s go ahead and dive into my best bets for NFL Week 8.

(All times ET)

SUNDAY, OCT. 27

Jets @ Patriots (1 p.m., CBS)

I fully understand the Patriots are not good. 

They are 1-6 with six straight losses, including a 16-point loss to the Jaguars on Sunday in England, after losing by three touchdowns to the Texans the week before. 

Despite the defeats, the Patriots’ change at quarterback has given them life on that side of the ball. Drake Maye is completing nearly 66% of passes to zero receiving weapons who’d start on any other team. He’s thrown for just over 500 yards with five touchdowns.

The Patriots, who we know aren’t good, are facing the 2-5 Jets, who are also not good. Why are the Jets a touchdown favorite over anyone right now? They are a dysfunctional team that can’t score and, after the firing of Robert Saleh, can’t play defense now. 

This team is ranked 21st in both offensive and defensive DVOA and, in a sign of poor coaching, it is 28th in special teams. 

New York has no business being a 7-point road favorite. 

PICK: Patriots (+7.5) to lose by fewer than 7.5 points, or win outright

Can anyone beat the Ravens right now?

Ravens @ Browns (1 p.m., CBS)

Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson was the worst quarterback in the NFL this season.

Watson tore his Achilles tendon in Week 7 and was put on injured reserve. Watson not being in the lineup will give the Browns better quarterback play and, by default, Cleveland will get better. 

The Browns have a healthy Jameis Winston to play quarterback. He got one drive in Week 7 and they immediately scored. Even if Dorian…

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Publish date : 2024-10-23 19:34:56

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