Prisco’s Week 8 NFL Picks, Predictions, Bets: Cowboys Beat Broncos in Shootout

Grading a week with strong straight-up picks but weak against-the-spread results is challenging, possibly warranting a ‘C’ or even a ‘D.’ Week 7 felt underwhelming, despite a 10-5 straight-up record, offset by a disappointing 6-9 ATS performance. The season’s straight-up record now stands at 76-31-1, while the ATS record dipped to 55-53-0, precariously close to the .500 mark. With six teams on bye this week, the reduced game selection might be beneficial.

Minnesota Vikings at Los Angeles Chargers (-3)

Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET, Amazon Prime

Carson Wentz will continue as the Vikings’ quarterback, as J.J. McCarthy remains sidelined with a high ankle sprain. Wentz tends to have inconsistent performances. Justin Herbert is coming off a strong passing game, but faces a tough challenge against Brian Flores’ defense. Despite the challenge, Herbert should make enough plays to secure a win, with the Chargers likely forcing a few turnovers from Wentz.

Pick: Chargers 28, Vikings 23

Buffalo Bills (-7.5) at Carolina Panthers

Sunday, 1 p.m. on Fox

The Bills are coming off a much-needed bye week after two consecutive losses. The Panthers have won two straight, driven by a strong running game and physical defense. While the Bills have struggled against the run, they should fare better in this matchup. Josh Allen is expected to regain his form, leading the Bills to victory.

Pick: Bills 28, Panthers 20

Chicago Bears (+6.5) at Baltimore Ravens

Sunday, 1 p.m. on CBS

The Ravens are coming off a bye and could have Lamar Jackson back, which they desperately need. However, his health remains a question mark. The Bears have won four straight, improving their record to 4-2, primarily through their running game. With Jackson back, the Ravens, a team in dire need of a win, should find a way to prevail. Failure to do so would be a significant setback.

Pick: Ravens 27, Bears 21

Cleveland Browns at New England Patriots (-7)

Sunday, 1 p.m. on Fox

The Patriots have won three straight on the road, taking the lead in the AFC East. They now face a Cleveland team that lacks offensive firepower. While the Cleveland defense poses a challenge, Drake Maye should do enough to secure a win for the Patriots.

Pick: Patriots 24, Browns 14

Miami Dolphins at Atlanta Falcons (-7)

Sunday, 1 p.m. on CBS

The Dolphins are struggling and face a second consecutive road game, a tough situation. They face a Falcons team coming off a road loss. The Dolphins’ offense is not performing well, and the Falcons will heavily utilize Bijan Robinson’s running abilities. The Falcons are expected to win convincingly.

Pick: Falcons 31, Dolphins 13

New York Giants at Philadelphia Eagles (-7)

Sunday, 1 p.m. on Fox

The Giants upset the Eagles two weeks ago, but repeating that feat will be much harder. They are playing consecutive road games, which is difficult, and the Eagles will be seeking revenge. Philadelphia is expected to continue their strong offensive performance from their win against the Vikings, avenging their previous loss to the Giants.

Pick: Eagles 30, Giants 17

New York Jets at Cincinnati Bengals (-6.5)

Sunday, 1 p.m. on CBS

The winless Jets travel to face a Bengals team revitalized with Joe Flacco. The Jets are making a quarterback change, benching Justin Fields for Tyrod Taylor. However, the quarterback change is unlikely to improve their offense. The Bengals’ offense is strong. Flacco is expected to maintain his hot streak and lead the Bengals to victory.

Pick: Bengals 29, Jets 14

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