NFL Week 8 produced several notable overreactions and realities across the league, with the Minnesota Vikings' loss to the Detroit Lions raising questions about quarterback Kyler Murray, the Indianapolis Colts' blowout loss prompting calls for changes, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' defensive dominance making them NFC South favorites.
Vikings should bench Kyler Murray
After a 19-15 loss to the Lions, the Vikings' 6-0 start ended. Murray completed 17 of 29 passes for 210 yards, one touchdown, one interception, and took three sacks. His off-target rate was 17.2%, and his EPA per dropback is a career-worst -0.11. Coach Kevin O'Connell acknowledged missed opportunities, and frustration is growing, with Justin Jefferson declining postgame media. Backup Carson Wentz or a trade may be considered.
Colts need to part ways with Jonathan Taylor and Shane Steichen
Indianapolis lost 42-7 to the Jaguars, with a first-half drive chart of punt, punt, punt, fumble, punt, punt, interception (pick-six), kneel. Trevor Lawrence threw for 210 yards and three touchdowns on 14 attempts (15 yards per attempt). The Colts traded Quenton Nelson and DeForest Buckner and fired GM Chris Ballard. The article argues the Colts should trade Taylor, who commands significant offers, and fire coach Shane Steichen, or face mismanagement by owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon.
Browns' struggles in Pittsburgh continue
Cleveland lost 27-6 to the Steelers, extending their regular-season winless streak in Pittsburgh since 2003. Deshaun Watson took eight sacks, bringing his total to 22 in four games, but the Browns lack a better quarterback option and remain 5-3 with all wins by four points or fewer.
Buccaneers will win the NFC South
Tampa Bay beat the Falcons 16-0 without a single completion by Baker Mayfield (three attempts), the first such win since 1974. The defense forced four interceptions against Michael Penix Jr., leads the NFL in EPA per play, turnovers forced, and ranks high in other metrics. With an improving offensive line and running back Bucky Irving, the Buccaneers could become the first team since the 1992 Chargers to make the playoffs after an 0-4 start.
Bengals' defense not a Super Bowl barrier
Cincinnati needed six touchdowns from Joe Burrow to beat the Titans 43-36 in overtime. Despite defensive issues, the Bengals rank 16th in EPA per play, have the third-highest sack rate, and forced 11 turnovers. Dexter Lawrence has been a key acquisition. The elite offense with Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins may compensate.
Andy Reid's decisions cost Chiefs
Kansas City lost 28-24 to the Broncos after leading 24-13. Reid's fourth-quarter decisions included a punt on fourth-and-inches, a failed rollout leading to a sack and missed 54-yard field goal by Harrison Butker (2-for-6 from 50+ yards), and poor clock management late. The Chiefs' inability to run a quarterback sneak and lack of urgency were criticized.
