NFL Week 8 Early Odds, Picks & Predictions (2023)

We had many teams on a bye week in Week 7. It’s good to have those teams back in action for Week 8.

I’m eying a couple of spots for Week 8 of the NFL season, hoping to earn some +EV on these bets.

Take a look and consider tailing!

Early NFL Week 8 Best Bets

All wagers are 1 unit.

Houston Texans vs. Carolina Panthers

The Texans and Panthers both had a bye week last weekend. But with Bryce Young facing off against C.J. Stroud, the Over is appealing.

It’s not just because we’ve got the two best rookie quarterbacks facing off. It’s ultimately because both defenses have struggled badly this year.

The Texans have allowed 362.5 yards per game, while the Panthers have given up 358.3 yards per game. Both teams have missed countless tackles and have struggled to stop the run. Meanwhile, the Texans have a solid secondary, but the Panthers don’t. On the other hand, the Texans’ pass rush isn’t great, while the Panthers have a better one.

Neither defense has been consistent. Carolina allowed 84 points to the Dolphins and Lions in their last two games. And while the Texans have performed better defensively, they’ve given up more yards than the Panthers this season. It’ll all catch up.

C.J. Stroud has protected the football and has many weapons. Bryce Young is getting more comfortable with Carolina’s offense and should succeed with a new play-caller on his side. Give me the Over.

Bet: Over 41.5 (-110)

New Orleans Saints vs. Indianapolis Colts

The Colts most recently lost to the Browns, 39-38, with Deshaun Watson unavailable. Maybe he’s worse than PJ Walker. But that’s beside the point. The Colts’ defense is miserable. They’ve missed so many tackles and have a secondary that just isn’t good enough for the NFL.

Indianapolis has allowed 76 points over their last two games. Both were losses. Although the Saints aren’t a premier offense, New Orleans will want to come back after last week’s game and be a bit more aggressive early offensively. The Saints are starting to get fully healthy on offense. They have some big names and awesome playmakers that should make an impact moving forward.

The Saints’ offense should do well against the Colts. However, with Gardner Minshew, the Colts will turn the ball over more frequently and struggle against one of the best defenses in the NFL.

Minshew already has four interceptions, with only five passing touchdowns this season. He’s a reliable backup. But the Colts went with Anthony Richardson over Minshew for a reason.

Let’s back the Saints at +1.5.

Bet: Saints +1.5 (-110)

Make sure to check out our other best bets for Monday: