NFL Week 8 Preview: Tensions Rise as Trade Deadline Approaches
This week in New England, the NFL is gearing up for some exciting matchups as the 2025 regular season enters its eighth week. The stakes are increasing for teams that are vying for playoff spots and for front offices preparing for the upcoming trade deadline on November 4. With six teams on bye—namely the Detroit Lions, Las Vegas Raiders, Los Angeles Rams, Arizona Cardinals, Seattle Seahawks, and Jacksonville Jaguars—the pressure will be on the remaining teams this Sunday.
Perhaps one of the most anticipated games features Aaron Rodgers taking on his former team, the Green Bay Packers. In this prime-time matchup, the stakes are high for Rodgers, who will aim to showcase his skills against a team he has a long history with. The Packers have not fared well on the road this season, recording a disappointing 0-3 against the spread. As for the Pittsburgh Steelers, they find themselves as home underdogs, despite Coach Mike Tomlin‘s strong track record when playing at home against the spread.
Over in New England, the Patriots are returning home after a successful three-game road trip, sweeping all their games. Their upcoming matchup against the Cleveland Browns poses a unique challenge, especially with the Browns’ struggle to score, averaging only 16.1 points per game. The Patriots’ defense has performed well, allowing an average of 19 points per game overall this season. Experts project a win for New England, with a score of 27-17, making Patriots -7 the favored choice.
Conversely, the Miami Dolphins are also struggling, coming off a harsh 31-6 loss against the Browns. With deteriorating performances from quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, it’s becoming clearer that changes may be on the horizon in Miami. In their game against the Atlanta Falcons, who boast a strong defense, it’s projected that the Dolphins may lose again, likely with a score of 30-20 in favor of the Falcons.
Other notable matchups include the Baltimore Ravens hosting the Chicago Bears, and the Philadelphia Eagles facing the New York Giants. The Eagles are expected to continue their strong season, with projections putting them at a score of 30-20 against the Giants.
As we look forward to this week’s games, the anticipation continues to grow. With everything at stake, fans will surely be glued to their screens for every minute of action.
