If we learned anything in Week 9, it's that tough matchups go both ways. Sure, you might lower expectations when a top fantasy option is facing a strong defense, but unless you have ...
NFL Predictions Week 8: Picks Guide, Odds Advice and Schedule Info
Oct 27, 2019
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees warms up before an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
It's Sunday of Week 8, and we are finally getting some clarity on a couple key NFL injuries. Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan, for example, has been ruled out. Meanwhile, the New Orleans Saints are set to start quarterback Drew Brees.
This news bodes well for bettors backing the Saints and the Seattle Seahawks. Both teams are looking good against the spread in Week 8, though not entirely because of the quarterback situations. Poor defense for both Atlanta (31.9 points per game allowed) and the Arizona Cardinals (27.4 points) will play a role.
Which other teams are favorable picks against the spread? Let's dig into the latest lines and over/unders from Caesars and make some predictions.
Week 8 Lines, Over/Unders and Predictions
Sunday, October 27
1 p.m. ET
Philadelphia Eagles at Buffalo Bills (-2); O/U 41 (Fox): Philadelphia 24-23
L.A. Chargers at Chicago Bears (-3.5); O/U 41 (Fox): Chicago 22-20
N.Y. Giants at Detroit Lions (-6.5); O/U 49.5 (Fox): Detroit 29-24
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Tennessee Titans (-2.5); O/U 45.5 (Fox): Tennessee 27-20
Seattle Seahawks at Atlanta Falcons (+8); O/U 51 (Fox): Seattle 33-20
Denver Broncos at Indianapolis Colts (-5.5); O/U 41(CBS): Indianapolis 25-22
Cincinnati Bengals at L.A. Rams (-11); O/U 47.5 (CBS): Los Angeles 40-20
Arizona Cardinals at New Orleans Saints (-11.5); O/U 49 (CBS): New Orleans 30-18
Cincinnati Bengals at Los Angeles Rams (in London)
Games in London can be unpredictable, which may be why the line is in the low double digits. The Los Angeles Rams may be inconsistent on both sides of the ball, but they have playoff-caliber talent, something the Cincinnati Bengals lack.
The Bengals are not winless by accident. Their offensive line struggles in pass protection (24 sacks allowed) and in the run game (2.9 yards per carry). The offense has not been able to move the ball with any sort of consistency, and finishing drives with touchdowns has been a rarity—Cincinnati is averaging 1.7 touchdowns per game.
The Rams defense may have a habit of surrendering big plays—the addition of Jalen Ramsey may help in that regard—but the Bengals do not have the firepower to take advantage.
The Bengals also don't have the sort of defense that can capitalize on Jared Goff and the Rams passing attack. Los Angeles should be able to stick with the running game against a defense that has allowed a league-high 189 rushing yards per game.
Los Angeles may not win by 27 points like it did against the Falcons in Week 7, but it should win by two scores.
New York Giants at Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions are favored by nearly a touchdown against the New York Giants, but that may be too generous. Part of the issue is that the Lions have recently placed starting running back Kerryon Johnson on injured reserve.
"Obviously, you know how much we value Kerryon and what a great part of our offense and our team he is," head coach Matt Patricia said, per Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press.
Even with Johnson, however, Detroit has struggled to move the ball on the ground. The Lions have averaged 103.2 rushing yards per game this season, 18th in the NFL. This means it will be harder to take advantage of one of New York's biggest weaknesses: run defense.
The Giants rank 26th in run defense, allowing an average of 131.4 rushing yards per game. They aren't much better against the pass (ranked 23rd), but the Giants should be able to put more focus on slowing Matthew Stafford and the Lions passing attack.
While the Giants offense won't have wideout Sterling Shepard for a third consecutive game, it will have Evan Engram and Saqon Barkley for a second straight week.
The Giants should have success against a Lions defense that ranks 30th against the pass (289.7 yards per game allowed), 26th against the run (129.2) and 31st overall (428.8). They may not find enough to win the game, but don't be shocked if this one is closer than a touchdown.
Green Bay Packers at Kansas City Chiefs
We've known since late in the week that the Kansas City Chiefs will be without starting quarterback Patrick Mahomes. This is just one of the reasons why the Green Bay Packers are an appealing pick.
A bigger reason may be a Kansas City defense that allows an average of 377.4 yards per game, 24th in the NFL. While the Chiefs should be able to pressure Aaron Rodgers, the Packers should be able to counter with Aaron Jones and the ground game.
The Chiefs have surrendered an average of 148.9 rushing yards per game, fourth-most in the NFL.
Green Bay's rushing attack will be critical in this game too. While Matt Moore isn't as dangerous a quarterback as Mahomes, he only needs to get the ball to Kansas City's playmakers for the Chiefs to be explosive. Moore completed 10 of 19 attempts for 117 yards and a touchdown in limited action in Week 7.
Keeping the Chiefs offense off the field should still be a priority in this game. Expect the Packers to lean on the run early and often while still allowing Rodgers to make magic when he has to.
Green Bay's defense, which has allowed just 19.9 points per game, should contain Moore just enough to come out with a touchdown victory.
Ryan Tannehill, Matt Moore, Top Week 8 Waiver-Wire QBs After Matt Ryan Injury
Oct 26, 2019
NASHVILLE, TN - OCTOBER 20: Ryan Tannehill #17 of the Tennessee Titans avoids the rush and runs the ball during a game against the Los Angeles Chargers at Nissan Stadium on October 20, 2019 in Nashville, Tennessee. The Titans defeated the Chargers 23-20. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)
The Atlanta Falcons announced quarterback Matt Ryanhas been ruled out of the team's home game with the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday because of an ankle injury.
Ryan completed 70.9 percent of his passes for 15 touchdowns and eight interceptions through his team's first seven games.
Hopefully the 12-year veteran returns shortly after missing his first start since 2009, but until then, Matt Schaub will call signals.
From a fantasy football perspective, the question is where teams can go for a backup in Ryan's absence. Thankfully, most waiver wires aren't short on quarterbacking talent for a one-week holdover, and here's a look at a few.
Tennessee Titans QB Ryan Tannehill vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The struggling Titans offense received a boost last week when backup Ryan Tannehill started and went 23-of-29 for 312 yards, two touchdowns and one interception in a 23-20 win over the Los Angeles Chargers.
It was a career-best completion-rate day for the ex-Miami Dolphin, per Next Gen Stats (h/t Titans' official Twitter):
Ryan Tannehill's 79.3% completion percentage set his career high (minimum of 20 attempts) + qualified as the 10th-best in franchise history.@NextGenStats 📊 pic.twitter.com/Fiu3DsAkhz
The game also marked the first time that Tennessee had 300 or more passing yards this season.
Now the Titans will face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, whose No. 30 scoring defense allows 30.8 points per game. Tampa Bay sells out to stop the run in its scheme, and that leaves the Bucs vulnerable on the back end, where they've allowed the most passing yards per game.
As for Tannehill, he was clearly on the same page with his top two wideouts in Corey Davis (six catches, 80 yards, touchdown) and A.J. Brown (six catches, 64 yards).
All signs points to the Titans offense rolling for one more week, so pick up Tannehill if he's available. He's a free agent in 77 percent of Yahoo Sports leagues.
Kansas City Chiefs QB Matt Moore vs. Green Bay Packers
This is a situation where we're betting on the talent surrounding Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Matt Moore and hoping for the best.
Moore, who is stepping in for the injured Patrick Mahomes (dislocated right kneecap), isn't about to sling the ball 60 yards downfield to wideout Tyreek Hill or fire no-look passes in tight windows to tight end Travis Kelce.
But he's been a serviceable spot starter for the better part of his 12 NFL seasons and could fare well against a Packers team that's allowed 26 points per game over its last four contests.
Moore went 10-of-19 for 117 yards and a touchdown against the Denver Broncos in relief of Mahomes, who suffered a game-ending injury in the second quarter.
Most importantly, he showed a good rapport with Hill and Kelce.
Hill caught three of five Moore targets for 74 yards, including this 57-yard score:
Kelce snagged two passes on four targets for 13 yards, but an 18-yard completion was negated by offensive pass interference on Byron Pringle.
The 6-1 Packers pose a much greater threat than the 2-5 Broncos, but Moore could be in line for a big game thanks to the explosive Hill-Kelce duo. He's on the waiver wire in 94 percent of Yahoo leagues.
New York Giants QB Daniel Jones at Detroit Lions
Let's get a few things out of the way: Yes, the turnovers (seven interceptions, six fumbles) are a significant concern. Yes, the offensive line hasn't done a good job keeping Jones upright. And yes, Jones has thrown just one touchdown pass in each of his last four games.
But there's reason to believe he bounces back against the Detroit Lions, who will be without shutdown cornerback Darius Slay because of a hamstring injury.
Pro Football Focus outlined the impact Slay has had on the defense in late-game situations:
With CB Darius Slay ruled out, the #Lions will be without their strongest 4th Quarter/OT coverage defender
Slay has earned the 5th highest coverage grade in the 4th Quarter/OT in 2019 (min 30 snaps)
Detroit will also be sans defensive tackle Mike Daniels (foot injury), leaving a team that just allowed 42 points at home to the Minnesota Vikings last week fairly shorthanded.
That should help Jones, who will be in the friendly confines of indoor Ford Field as opposed to being exposed to the elements in the windy and swampy Meadowlands, as he was in a sloppy 27-21 loss to the Arizona Cardinals last Sunday.
Plus, Jones (sacked eight times vs. Arizona) may not face a ferocious pass rush this time around: The Lions are just 29th in adjusted sack rate, per Football Outsiders, at 4.7 percent.
Look for the Giants offense to get going and Jones to do the same. The rookie is available in 77 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Other Options
New York Jets signal-caller Sam Darnold (77 percent availability) may have seen "ghosts" versus the New England Patriots, but who hasn't in a season where the Pats look like a historically great defense? The Jacksonville Jaguars are up next and sans shutdown cornerback Jalen Ramsey, who's now a Los Angeles Ram.
This is a nice rebound spot for Darnold, who went 23-of-32 for 338 yards, two scores and a pick versus a tough Dallas Cowboys defense the week before the Pats debacle.
Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (77 percent availability) may have to throw the ball a ton Sunday to keep pace with a high-powered Texans passing attack that should give the Silver and Black's No. 29 scoring defense serious fits.
This is a spot where we can bet on the potential Raiders' pass-game volume and hope for the best.
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (87 percent availability) cleared concussion protocol and is slated to face the winless Miami Dolphins, who have allowed the NFL's most points per game this season. His case is as simple as that.
Julio Jones, Calvin Ridley, Austin Hooper Fantasy Stock After Matt Ryan's Injury
Oct 26, 2019
GLENDALE, ARIZONA - OCTOBER 13: Julio Jones #11 of the Atlanta Falcons in action during the NFL game against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on October 13, 2019 in Glendale, Arizona. The Cardinals defeated the Falcons 34-33. (Photo by Jennifer Stewart/Getty Images)
Fantasy owners with Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan will have to find a new starter before Sunday's games.
The Falcons are still loaded with fantasy-relevant playmakers, though. Matt Schaub isn't high-quality starting material at quarterback, but he did show signs of promise late in that Rams game by going 6-of-6 for 65 yards and one touchdown.
Julio Jones, Calvin Ridley and Austin Hooper are too talented for the Falcons to fall into oblivion. It's a testament to Jones' dominance that his pace of 91 receptions and 1,280 yards would mark his lowest total in receptions since 2017 and yards since 2013.
Given Jones' size (6'3", 220 lbs) and physical style of play, he can get open in any situation regardless of who is throwing him the ball. His value will remain at WR1 even with Ryan out.
Hooper is a tight end who could see his value jump with Schaub under center. Schaub loved using tight ends when he was starting for the Houston Texans. The QB's last great season came in 2012 when Owen Daniels ranked second on the team with 104 targets, 62 catches, 716 yards and led the squad with six receiving touchdowns.
This has been a disappointing season overall for tight ends in fantasy with stars George Kittle, Travis Kelce and Zach Ertz not living up to their preseason hype.
Hooper has been a pleasant surprise with the most fantasy points at the position (78.6), and he's already tied his career high with four touchdown receptions through seven games.
History indicates Schaub will look for his tight end, allowing Hooper to maintain enough value to be in your starting lineup as a flex option each week.
Ridley is the riskiest member of the bunch because it's hard to decipher how many targets will be available to Schaub's No. 3 option. The former Alabama star has been hit-and-miss all season with two games of three or fewer receptions and three contests with under 35 yards.
Until it becomes clear how much of a factor Ridley will be, your best bet is to look at another option on your bench or a player on the waiver wire with a favorable matchup.
Falcons' Matt Ryan out vs. Seahawks with Ankle Injury; Matt Schaub to Start
Oct 26, 2019
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - OCTOBER 20: Matt Ryan #2 of the Atlanta Falcons reacts after fumbling on a tackle by Aaron Donald #99 of the Los Angeles Rams in the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on October 20, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, veteran Matt Schaub will start in Ryan's place.
Ryan, 34, has had a tough season for the Falcons. While his counting statistics (2,170 yards, 15 touchdowns, eight interceptions, 70.9 percent completion percentage) have been solid, the Falcons have limped to a 1-6 record.
Coming into the 2019 season Ryan had a remarkable streak of games played and hadn't missed a contest since sitting out two games in December 2009 with turf toe. It's been an impressive stretch of longevity and durability for the four-time Pro Bowler and 2016 MVP, though his iron-man streak has come to an end.
In Schaub, the Falcons have a reliable backup with a ton of starting experience.
"If I'm called upon and I've got to step in there, whether it be in practice or the games, I'll be there for my guys," Schaub said after Ryan's injury in Week 7, per Vaughn McClure of ESPN.
Beating the 5-2 Seahawks would have been a major challenge even with Ryan in the lineup, but it becomes even tougher with Schaub.
Although Schaub is a two-time Pro Bowler dating back to his time with the Houston Texans, the 38-year-old has not started a game since 2015.
Week 8 NFL Picks: Tips for Vegas Odds and Over/Under Score Predictions
Oct 26, 2019
New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara (41) carries in the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)
Week 8 features several intriguing contests, some of which are made more unpredictable by injuries.
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees may make his return this week, though he's listed as questionable along with running back Alvin Kamara. Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan is also listed as questionable, while Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes will not play.
Injuries alone won't decide a game, but they can impact how they play out. We'll dive into these injuries and more here. First, though, is a look at the latest lines and over/unders from Caesars, along with score predictions for every game.
Week 8 Lines, Over/Unders and Predictions
Philadelphia Eagles at Buffalo Bills (-2); O/U 41.5: Philadelphia 24-23
L.A. Chargers at Chicago Bears (-3.5); O/U 41: Chicago 22-20
N.Y. Giants at Detroit Lions (-6.5); O/U 49.5: Detroit 24-29
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Tennessee Titans (-2.5); O/U 45.5: Tennessee 27-20
Seattle Seahawks at Atlanta Falcons (n/a): Seattle 33-20
Denver Broncos at Indianapolis Colts (-5.5); O/U 42: Indianapolis 25-22
Cincinnati Bengals at L.A. Rams (-12); O/U 48: Los Angeles 40-20
Arizona Cardinals at New Orleans Saints (-10.5); O/U 48: New Orleans 30-18
N.Y. Jets at Jacksonville Jaguars (-6.5); O/U 41: Jacksonville 26-18
Carolina Panthers at San Francisco 49 (-5.5); O/U 42: San Francisco 20-18
Cleveland Browns at New England Patriots (-10.5); O/U 44: New England 30-20
Oakland Raiders at Houston Texans (-6); O/U 51.5: Houston 23-22
Green Bay Packers (-4.5) at Kansas City; Chiefs O/U 47.5: Green Bay 28-22
Miami Dolphins at Pittsburgh Steelers (-13.5); O/U 43.5: Pittsburgh 27-20
Seattle Seahawks at Atlanta Falcons
There is no line listed for the Falcons' game against the Seattle Seahawks, primarily because of the uncertain status of Ryan (ankle).
"We will have a sense for what that looks like tomorrow," head coach Dan Quinn said on Friday, per ESPN's Vaughn McClure. "We pushed it really hard with him today to see how he responds overnight to go. But I think you have to push to find out."
If Ryan cannot go, there is likely to be a large line in favor of Seattle. Unless that line is outlandish, it will be worth taking the Seahawks.
This isn't an indictment of Falcons quarterback Matt Schaub, who played well in limited action last week. It's a product of Atlanta's bottom-tier defense. The Falcons have allowed an average of 387.7 yards and 31.9 points per game this season. Only the Miami Dolphins have allowed more points.
The only way the Falcons are likely to keep this game close is via a shootout. The chances of that happening with a backup quarterback are slim.
Arizona Cardinals at New Orleans Saints
The Saints are favored against the Arizona Cardinals, and rightfully so. They're at home and they've been winning even with Brees on the sideline. Teddy Bridgewater has been more than serviceable as his replacement, which is why Brees' status shouldn't have a huge impact on this game.
The status of Alvin Kamara is a little more significant, as he is one of the league's most dynamic running backs when healthy. However, Latavius Murray is quite capable of carrying the load.
Murray started in place of Kamara last week and racked up 150 combined rushing and receiving yards against the Chicago Bears. Still, Kamara is a more explosive receiver out of the backfield, and that 10.5-point line would look a lot more inviting with him in the lineup.
The Cardinals are on a three-game winning streak and are not simply going to roll over for New Orleans. However, they've struggled mightily on defense, ranking 29th overall and 28th in scoring defense. The Cardinals have also struggled to protect rookie quarterback Kyler Murray, who has been sacked 23 times in seven games.
Against a Saints defense that is hitting its stride—New Orleans has allowed an average of just 16.25 points over the last four games—this is a problem.
Expect New Orleans to rattle Murray and produce a comfortable win, regardless of who is in their backfield.
Green Bay Packers at Kansas City Chiefs
While the Saints defense is hitting its stride, so too is the Packers offense. Green Bay has averaged 33 points over the last three weeks. It will now face a Kansas City defense that allows an average of 377.4 yards per game, ranking 24th in the NFL.
This doesn't mean the Packers will cruise to victory, though. The Chiefs defense surrenders yards in bunches, but it is quite capable of generating pressure and forcing mistakes. The Chiefs have 20 sacks and six interceptions already this season.
Even without Mahomes, this won't be a blowout.
Still, the Packers should be able to move the ball enough to get ahead on the scoreboard and stay there. Matt Moore played well in relief of Mahomes last week, but he isn't as likely to go pass-for-pass against Aaron Rodgers the way Mahomes could.
Green Bay's defense has cooled off a bit since the start of the season, but the Packers are still allowing fewer than 20 points per game.
As long as the line remains under a touchdown, the Packers are the favorable choice here.
Drew Brees' Return, Matt Ryan, Mohamed Sanu in Oct. 24 Fantasy Football Roundup
Oct 24, 2019
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 20: Drew Brees #9 of the New Orleans Saints warms up before the game against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on October 20, 2019 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by David Banks/Getty Images)
Week 8 of the 2019 NFL season kicks off Thursday night as the Washington Redskins travel to U.S. Bank Stadium to face the Minnesota Vikings. It's also reaching crunch time in the world of fantasy football as the playoff races heat up.
Let's check out some of the latest fantasy news to monitor over the coming days.
Drew Brees Planning To Return vs. Cardinals
Brees played music for the ears of New Orleans Saints fans and his fantasy owners when he announced he planned to return from thumb surgery for Sunday's game against the Arizona Cardinals.
The 40-year-old Purdue product was his prolific self in his only full game this season. He completed 32 of 43 throws for 370 yards, two touchdowns and one interception in a Week 1 victory over the Houston Texans.
He's been one of the most consistent fantasy QBs throughout his career. He recorded over 4,000 yards for 12 consecutive seasons from 2006 through 2017. He fell just eight yards short of that mark in 2018.
Brees receives a soft landing for his return against the Cardinals' 29th-ranked defense and should be immediately slotted back into fantasy lineups if he's declared active Sunday.
Matt Ryan Could Miss Seahawks Clash
Ryan suffered a sprained right ankle during the Atlanta Falcons' 37-10 blowout loss to the Los Angeles Rams last week, and now he's in danger of missing their matchup with the Seattle Seahawks.
Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network provided an update and noted the team is getting backup Matt Schaub ready to fill the void:
As he continues to nurse his ailing sprained ankle, #Falcons QB Matt Ryan is not expected to practice today. As they get Matt Schaub ready to go...
Although the Falcons have struggled to a 1-6 record, their poor performances and being forced to consistently play from behind has allowed him to rank sixth in quarterback scoring this year. That type of production warrants a start against all but the strongest pass defenses.
If he's kept on the sideline this week, the Pittsburgh Steelers' Mason Rudolph and Tennessee Titans' Ryan Tannehill are solid one-game replacements.
Mohamed Sanu Risky Fantasy Play in First Patriots Game
The New England Patriots made headlines this week when they acquired Sanu from the Falcons to provide depth at wide receiver.
Although his playmaking ability gives him ample upside, fantasy owners may be better off leaving him on the bench for Sunday's game against the Cleveland Browns.
Pats head coach Bill Belichicktold reporters the team would have to "see how all of that comes together" as Sanu learns the team's offensive system:
"I think each player is a little bit different. Really it's more about the game plan right now than it is starting on day one and going through the installation schedule. Really what we're doing this week…what the Browns do, what the coverages are, what our game plan is, what our assignments are, what adjustments we have to make and so forth. (Rather) than go back and talk about things that happened earlier in the year, I mean there is a time for that and we certainly have a lot to catch up on but the most important thing for a player coming onto the team is the immediate game."
Sanu, who tallied 33 catches for 313 yards and one touchdown in seven games with the Falcons, should become a weekly flex option once he becomes established in New England.
The Houston Texans' Kenny Stills and Buffalo Bills' Cole Beasley are solid Week 8 options for those needing a short-term answer at the position.
Matt Ryan Misses Practice with Ankle Injury; Falcons Preparing Matt Schaub
Oct 24, 2019
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) and quarterback Matt Schaub (8) walk onto the field for warm-ups before an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Thursday, Nov. 22, 2018. (AP Photo/Bill Feig)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan is reportedly not expected to practice Thursday after suffering an ankle injury in last week's loss to the Los Angeles Rams.
According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the Falcons are getting backup Matt Schaub "ready to go" in the event Ryan is unable to play Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks.
Ryan hasn't missed a game since his second NFL season in 2009, and his streak of 154 consecutive starts is the third-longest active streak in the NFL and second among quarterbacks behind Los Angeles Chargers signal-caller Philip Rivers.
Although the Falcons are off to a disappointing 1-6 start this season, Ryan has performed well statistically. The 2016 NFL MVP is completing a career-best 70.9 percent of his passes for 2,170 yards, an NFL-leading 15 touchdowns and eight interceptions.
It will be difficult to replace the four-time Pro Bowler's production if he is ruled out Sunday, but Schaub is among the most experienced backup quarterbacks in the league.
The 38-year-old veteran is 47-45 in 92 career starts, most of which came during a seven-year stint with the Houston Texans from 2007 to 2013. Schaub was a two-time Pro Bowler in Houston and led the NFL with 4,770 passing yards in 2009.
While Schaub was once a quality NFL starter, he has only two starts to his credit since leaving the Texans after the 2013 season. Both of those starts came with the Baltimore Ravens in 2015.
Over the past four seasons with the Falcons, Schaub has attempted a total of 16 passes. He did perform well in relief of Ryan last week, though, going 6-of-6 for 65 yards and a touchdown.
During his 16-year career, Schaub has completed 64.0 percent of his passes for 24,952 yards, 134 touchdowns and 90 interceptions.
While the Falcons dealt wide receiver Mohamed Sanu to the New England Patriots for a 2020 second-round pick this week, Schaub will still have an impressive collection of weapons at his disposal if he plays against Seattle, including wide receivers Julio Jones and Calvin Ridley and tight end Austin Hooper.
Atlanta is home this week, but beating a 5-2 Seahawks team looking to bounce back from a 30-16 home loss to the Baltimore Ravens last week will be a major challenge regardless of who starts under center.
NFL TV Schedule 2019: Week 8 Live Stream, TV Coverage Map and Game Times
Oct 24, 2019
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo (10) passes against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first half of an NFL football game in Santa Clara, Calif., Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019. (AP Photo/Tony Avelar)
The New England Patriots and San Francisco 49ers will put their undefeated records on the line in Week 8 of the 2019 NFL season.
Both teams are slated to play in the late-afternoon window, with New England hosting the Cleveland Browns, and the 49ers welcoming the Carolina Panthers to Santa Clara.
Earlier in the day, the reeling Atlanta Falcons will face the Seattle Seahawks. Falcons head coach Dan Quinn, who previously served as Seattle's defensive coordinator, is in desperate need of a victory to quiet the criticism around his team.
Since only the Baltimore Ravens and Dallas Cowboys are idle, the broadcast schedule is packed. For information on the games available locally, check out 506Sports' complete coverage map.
Week 8 NFL Schedule
Note: TV and live-stream information in parentheses.
Thursday
Washington at Minnesota Vikings, 8:20 p.m. ET (Fox and NFL Network; Fox Sports Go)
Sunday
Seattle Seahawks at Atlanta Falcons, 1 p.m. ET (Fox; Fox Sports Go)
Philadelphia Eagles at Buffalo Bills, 1 p.m. ET (Fox; Fox Sports Go)
Los Angeles Chargers at Chicago Bears, 1 p.m. ET (Fox; Fox Sports Go)
New York Giants at Detroit Lions, 1 p.m. ET (Fox; Fox Sports Go)
Denver Broncos at Indianapolis Colts, 1 p.m. ET (CBS; CBS All Access)
New York Jets at Jacksonville Jaguars, 1 p.m. ET (CBS; CBS All Access)
Cincinnati Bengals vs. Los Angeles Rams (in London), 1 p.m. ET (CBS; CBS All Access)
Arizona Cardinals at New Orleans Saints, 1 p.m. ET (CBS; CBS All Access)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Tennessee Titans, 1 p.m. ET (Fox; Fox Sports Go)
Carolina Panthers at San Francisco 49ers, 4:05 p.m. ET (Fox; Fox Sports Go)
Oakland Raiders at Houston Texans, 4:25 p.m. ET (CBS; CBS All Access)
Cleveland Browns at New England Patriots, 4:25 p.m. ET (CBS; CBS All Access)
Green Bay Packers at Kansas City Chiefs, 8:20 p.m. ET (NBC; NBC Sports)
Monday
Miami Dolphins and Pittsburgh Steelers, 8:15 p.m. ET (ESPN; WatchESPN)
Dan Quinn Coaching for His Job?
Since the dramatic win against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 2, the Falcons have dropped five straight games. That's never a positive thing, but there are sometimes legitimate reasons.
Atlanta, however, has hardly looked competitive in a few of those matchups. Most recently, the Los Angeles Rams traveled across the country and smoked the Falcons 37-10. That dismantling is the kind of result that leads to dismissals.
Quinn survived for at least another week.
Perhaps most fortunately for the coach, he has a high-profile ally in superstar receiver Julio Jones. After that loss, Zach Klein of WSB-TV reported Jones became emotional in a speech supporting Quinn and imploring his teammates to perform better.
Jeff Ulbrich said the #Falcons were really moved by Julio Jones' locker room speech about Dan Quinn.
"The energy is exceptional considering the circumstance that we're in right now. Does his speech have something to do with it? Probably. I think it impacted a lot of guys." pic.twitter.com/tpKRCgdTKE
Klein noted Falcons owner Arthur Blank was present in the locker room during Jones' comments. Blank said "I still support" Quinn, according to Jeff Schultz of The Athletic.
Granted, between Jones' support and Matt Ryan's ankle injury, the timing for a coaching change would've been poor. Plus, the Falcons are idle next weekend. Should a move be coming, that's probably a more ideal moment for a switch.
But there's no question Quinn has a short leash, and another blowout loss could signal the end of his tenure.
Unreal Stats for Patriots Elite Defense
If you've followed the NFL even remotely closely over the last two decades, you should be familiar with Tom Brady. The six-time Super Bowl champion is having another superb year, averaging 284.6 yards while totaling 14 touchdowns so far.
But even the GOAT can benefit from a potentially historic defense.
Heading into Week 8, the Patriots rank first in several key categories. Those include points allowed per game (6.9), yards (223.1) and third-down rate (14.3). They've also grabbed 18 interceptions and allowed one passing score, which is just obscene.
Nothing better encapsulates their dominance than this, though: New England has three defensive touchdowns and a safety, so the unit has directly contributed 20 points. The defense has allowed only three touchdowns all year.
The Patriots defense is outscoring opposing offenses.
Sure, that doesn't count special teams. Yet if you add a couple of blocked punts for touchdowns and factor in the ensuing extra points, New England has nearly scored as many non-offensive points (37) than all seven opponents combined (48).
That's a long way of saying Baker Mayfield―who leads the NFL with 11 interceptions―might have a rough outing.
Follow Bleacher Report writer David Kenyon on Twitter @Kenyon19_BR
Fantasy Football Week 8: Top 100 Players' Updated Trade Value and Advice
Oct 24, 2019
ARLINGTON, TEXAS - OCTOBER 20: Carson Wentz #11 of the Philadelphia Eagles reacts after fumbling the ball against the Dallas Cowboys in the second quarter at AT&T Stadium on October 20, 2019 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)
Bye weeks, injuries, trades, handcuffs becoming starters, the list goes on. There's a lot for a fantasy player to keep track of this time of year, and you need every resource at your disposal.
That's why we do the fantasy trade value chart—to give you a handy resource for comparing a player's trade values while you analyze prospective deals. Obviously, your specific league rules and team needs will dictate how you value a player, but this is a guideline to make sure you don't get ripped off.
So, good luck. These are the weeks that make or break a fantasy season.
Notes: All fantasy points totals via ESPN PPR leagues. All fantasy points against statistics via Yahoo Sports. Players not listed have a trade value of one.
Matt Stafford has been inconsistent this year. Three games with 23 or more fantasy points, three games with 15 or fewer points. Part of that has been a greater emphasis on the run game, part has been Stafford's propensity in the past to be a bit hit-or-miss.
But it's possible the Lions are about to lean more heavily on Stafford's arm, with the news this week that starting running back Kerryon Johnson is heading to injured reserve.
Plus, solid matchups in the next two weeks against the New York Giants (giving up the 12th-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks) and Oakland Raiders (giving up the third-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks) should sweeten the pot.
Matthew Stafford might be the most under-appreciated QB in fantasy. Currently QB12 in fantasy points per game, he's on pace to establish new career benchmarks in pass yards per attempt (8.0) and air yards per attempt (8.6).
Better yet, he is gifted the Giants at home in WK8.
Granted, it's entirely possible that you could simply pick up Stafford off waivers in your league, so a trade may not even be necessary. But don't be afraid to chase him if you are in need of a quarterback—he'll come cheap, with the upside to be a top-five player at least over the next two weeks.
And given the potential of the Lions leaning more heavily on the passing game with Johnson injured, his long-term upside has improved as well.
Sell High: Carson Wentz
One player you might want to replace with Stafford is Carson Wentz.
It might not feel like you are actually selling high on Wentz, considering that he managed just 6.8 fantasy points against Dallas this past week and just 12.1 fantasy points against the New York Jets in 5. After a strong start, he has less than 15 fantasy points in two of his past three games.
But it might get worse. Consider what Wentz is facing the next four weeks:
Week 8: Buffalo Bills, giving up just 13 fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks per week, fifth in the NFL.
Week 9: Chicago Bears, giving up 14.7 fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks per week, sixth in the NFL.
Week 10: Bye
Week 11: New England Patriots, giving up 6.3 fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks per week—yes, you read that correctly, 6.3—best in the NFL.
There's a strong argument to be made that Wentz shouldn't be started at all over the next four weeks, given those three matchups and the bye. There's also all kinds of concerning news coming out of Philly right now, from leaks to players showing up late for meetings.
Carson Wentz
“A little embarrassed. We didn’t show up. They beat the crap out of us. We’ve got to be better”
“I’m confident we’ll get things fixed. This is a ticked off group. We’re going to rebound from it. I’m confident we’ll be all right”#Eaglespic.twitter.com/eRHZUelcww
There's no real indication of when DeSean Jackson will return from injury, leaving the team devoid of field-stretching options. Nelson Agholor isn't going to fill that void. Zach Ertz has mysteriously been far less productive this season, and while Wentz has played well, the team around him most certainly hasn't.
Alarm bells are going off around the 3-4 Eagles. There's a good chance you're running out of opportunities to get anything of value back for Wentz.
Odds and Ends
- Mohamed Sanu gets a fantasy bump in New England, although probably not a huge one. Julian Edelman and James White are the only Patriots who have consistent and reliable output in the passing game, but Sanu gives the team another much-needed option out wide. And the fact that they gave up a second-rounder to acquire him is an indication that they believe he can step in and be productive.
- Emmanuel Sanders gets a bump, too. He'll be the No. 1 wideout in San Francisco and is getting a nice upgrade at quarterback in Jimmy Garoppolo. Sanders doesn't have a ton of trade value, but he's an interesting buy-low option.
- Matt Ryan is another player to consider selling. He just lost one weapon in the passing game in Sanu, the Falcons are a mess and he's dealing with an ankle injury. This feels like a situation that could deteriorate quickly in Atlanta. Ryan's fantasy value hasn't suffered to this point, but it's getting harder and harder to trust him or the situation he's in.
- David Johnson has done nothing to lose his starting job, but boy oh boy is Chase Edmonds a talent. He showed as much on Sunday, absolutely obliterating the New York Giants in the feature role once Johnson was deemed too injured to continue playing.
This has real potential to become a timeshare as the season progresses. Talent always finds its way on to the field, and the Cardinals would be foolish to not find a bigger role for Edmonds. That doesn't mean that Johnson should be devalued in fantasy just yet—he's incredibly talented himself—but it just became a situation you should be monitoring closely.
