CBS Sports has released its bold predictions for NFL Week 8, highlighting several key storylines to watch as the 2026 season continues. The projections cover player usage, injury returns, favorable matchups, and division races.
Colts may limit Jonathan Taylor ahead of trade deadline
With the Indianapolis Colts sitting at 2-5 and having already traded left guard Quenton Nelson to Seattle and pass rusher DeForest Buckner to San Francisco, running back Jonathan Taylor could see his workload managed to protect his trade value. Taylor has rushed for 587 yards and eight touchdowns on 140 carries through seven games. In Week 7, he played a season-low 67.2% of offensive snaps with 18 carries, while backup Seth McGowan logged a season-high 32.8% snap share and 11 carries. The Colts, who lack a first-round pick in 2027, may continue this trend as the November 10 trade deadline approaches. Taylor's rushing yards over/under is set at 63.5.
Lamar Jackson expected to return without rust
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is set to return Sunday against the Buffalo Bills after missing three games with an ankle injury. Before the injury, Jackson was performing at an MVP level, completing 70.8% of his passes for 967 yards, six touchdowns, and one interception, averaging 10.07 yards per attempt with a 119.6 passer rating — all on pace for career highs. The Bills defense enters Week 8 allowing 386.8 total yards per game (second-most in the NFL) and 28.5 points per game (third-most), ranking 27th on third down and 31st in penalties per game. Jackson's passing touchdown over/under is 1.5, and his passing yards over/under is 237.5.
T.J. Hockenson poised for big game against Lions
Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson could exploit a Detroit Lions defense that has allowed the most receptions (56) and receiving yards (602) to tight ends this season, along with a league-high 10 touchdowns to the position. The Lions also surrender touchdowns on 72% of opponents' red zone trips. Hockenson leads the Vikings with six red zone targets and has two touchdowns on the year. He is listed at +230 to score one touchdown and +2000 to score two or more.
Antonio Williams could break out for Commanders
With Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin lost for the season, rookie Antonio Williams may see an expanded role. In Week 6, after McLaurin's exit, Williams led the receiver room with 34 routes run, 31 of them in the final three quarters. The third-round pick from Clemson has 18 receptions for 205 yards and one touchdown on 26 targets this season. The Philadelphia Eagles defense allows 239.9 passing yards per game, the seventh-highest in the league.
Falcons predicted to take NFC South lead
The Atlanta Falcons (4-4, 2-1 in division) could move into first place in the NFC South with a win at Tampa Bay and a Green Bay Packers victory over the Carolina Panthers (3-3) on Thursday night. The Buccaneers are 0-4 at home, and quarterback Baker Mayfield will face a Falcons defense that ranks fourth in fewest rushing yards allowed and fourth in pressure rate. A Falcons-Packers moneyline parlay is offered at +229.
