We’re powering through this NFL season with the usual suspects in the mix, but also a few upstarts making a push.
Last season, Washington and Minnesota were surprising regular-season performers, whilst this season Tampa Bay and Indianapolis are among the more unlikely yet promising franchises through seven weeks.
Week eight is here, and we are ready to rock.
For the latest NFL news, predictions, and betting tips, read on with my NFL Tips & Predictions for week eight below!
Los Angeles Chargers vs Minnesota Vikings
Friday, October 24th, 11:15 AM, AEST, SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles
It’s been hard to gauge the level Minnesota is at after a 14-win season in 2024/25.
They scored in each of the four quarters against the Eagles, but somehow copped one of Jalen Hurts’ best passing days as he posted 326 yards and three scores on the usually ferocious Vikings D.
Carson Wentz is covering for the injured JJ McCarthy, who the team needs back asap. Aaron Jones is a veteran offensive performer; the Vikings also need back healthy.
LA was hammered when it mattered by the juggernaut known as Indianapolis. Indy led 23-3 at halftime, and despite a comeback from the Chargers, they failed to fire when it mattered most.
The Chargers drop to 4-3 but get a SoFi Stadium prime time game on a shortened week. That’s usually the perfect setup for teams to spike, so we’ll side with the Bolts.
Betting tip: Chargers 24 - Vikings 22
Best Bet: Ladd McConkey 60+ receiving yards & Jordan Addison anytime TD
Pittsburgh Steelers vs Green Bay Packers
Monday, October 27th, 11:20 AM AEST, Acrisure Stadium, Pittsburgh
Aaron Rodgers and Pittsburgh welcome his old mob, Green Bay, to the Steel City.
The beginning of Rodgers’ tenure in Pittsburgh has been rock solid. Wins, a few mistakes, and no drama associated with the 40-something-year-old four-time MVP.
The Packers look like a good team, feel like a good team are talked about as if they’re a good team, yet still need to convince me they’re a contender this season.
Jordan Love makes amazing plays, then suffers droughts where he and the offence struggle. They’ll need to stay on task here to avoid TJ Watt and the Steelers' pass rush in front of the terrible towels.
I’m keen for the Packers to make a statement here after having to scrap their way to victory in Arizona against a Kyler-less Cardinals outfit.
Betting tip: Packers 28 - Steelers 23
Best Bet: Josh Jacobs anytime TD & Jaylen Warren 40+ rush yards
Kansas City Chiefs vs Washington Commanders
Tuesday, October 28th, 11:15 AM AEST, Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City
The Commanders are in an interesting position as we move into the middle of the season.
Jayden Daniels has not been as lethal as last season, despite arguably possessing more offensive weapons. Deebo Samuel and Terry McLaurin have both missed time, which has hurt the quarterback and hurt the team.
Daniels also took a lick against Dallas and did not return to the game. His status is up in the air.
Kansas City, in the meantime, feels almost all the way back.
From 0-2, they’ve won four of five since and only lost to the Jags in Florida at the death. They’ve scored 126 points in their past four games and handled the talented Lions a fortnight ago. They thumped Vegas to nil in week seven.
The offensive punch is beginning to fire, too. Xavier Worthy is healthy, Rashee Rice has served his suspension, returning with a pair of touchdowns, and Travis Kelce keeps making key plays for Mahomes when needed.
I’d love to see Washington roll into KC and take the cake, but we know that’s never been easy to do – especially with a wounded franchise QB.
Betting tip: Chiefs 27 - Commanders 24
Best Bet: Kareen Hunt anytime TD & Jayden Daniels 40+ rush yards