Defenses to start in Week 8
By: Jake Rajala
I love talking defense. Well, I’m going to cover crucial defenses that have a splendid edge over their foe in Week 8.
New England Patriots (vs Cleveland Browns)
There is no reason that the Pats can’t stomp the Browns. Mike Vrabel is a very experienced mind, and he can make life miserable for rookie QBs. Dillon Gabriel isn’t overly impressive, especially with pedestrian weapons. I wouldn’t be surprised if Shedeur Sanders got the keys to the offense soon. He only has three passing touchdowns on the season.
Indianapolis Colts (vs Tennessee Titans)
The 2025 first overall pick Cam Ward is playing like he was drafted behind the Top-5 QBs. Ward has 4 passing TDs to 5 ints. DeForest Buckner makes it quite challenging to run on. The Colts are sixth in rushing YPG allowed. They’re also eighth in points allowed.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (vs New Orleans Saints)
The Buccaneers don’t have to be intimidated by the Saints. Outside of the noise in the stadium, the Saints aren’t a threat. The Saints are 29th in PPG. Erik McCoy, who is a Top-3 center, is out for the rest of the season. This will allow Vita Vea to stand out against the Saints.
San Francisco 49ers (vs Houston Texans)
No Nick Bosa. No Fred Warner. No problem. The 49ers only gave up 10 points to the explosive Falcons last weekend. The 49ers have the genius Robert Saleh calling the shots in the Bay Area. The running game from the 49ers, which is the best in the league, can chew up time and leave the Texans offense on the sideline.
Houston Texans (San Francisco 49ers)
I expect this game to be a dogfight where both squads shine on the defensive side of the ball. Neither team has a prolific QB. We also witnessed the Texans defense, mainly their pass rush shine against the Seahawks. We all witnessed Will Anderson Jr. get a strip sack in the endzone and recover it for a touchdown.
Philadelphia Eagles (vs New York Giants)
Without the behemoth Jalen Carter, Philly has suffered in the run game and rushing the passer. Not only does he plan on returning, but the Eagles also welcomed back DE Brandon Graham from retirement, who should provide a spark on third down.
Kansas City Chiefs (vs Washington Commanders)
The Kansas City Chiefs have a sneaky good defense. The All-Pro DT Chris Jones has taken a lot of heat over the past few games for being lazy and mentally absent. Well, I anticipate him to try and bounce back in primetime against the Washington Commanders.
New Orleans Saints (Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
The Saints will come out hell-bent on saving their season in Week 8. They have Chase Young back, who had two pass deflections and half a sack last week. I’d still like to see Demario Davis make more magic happen. Kool-Aid McKinstry shouldn’t be a one hit wonder, as he needs to step it up.
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