Just like we thought.
The NFL is unpredictable. That’s why they are here to answer the important questions. Heading into Week 8, FOX Sports’ NFL experts tackle several topics, including whether Derrick Henry can help two-time MVP Lamar Jackson reach his first Super Bowl, if the Lions can succeed without Aidan Hutchinson, which recently traded wide receiver will make the biggest impact, and whether the Giants or Jets are in worse shape.
Let’s get started.
Can Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry finally get past the Chiefs and secure a Super Bowl appearance?
They believe so. Lamar Jackson must perform like the superstar he is during crucial playoff games, but having Henry in the backfield can significantly ease the burden on him. This dynamic duo could allow Jackson to execute plays with more freedom.
Derrick Henry has consistently excelled against the Chiefs. In five regular-season matchups, he has averaged 5.4 rushing yards per attempt on 91 carries, scoring seven rushing touchdowns along the way.
Their recent performance is impressive, averaging 35 points and 479 yards per game during a five-game winning streak. They are gaining momentum, and this time, even the Chiefs may struggle to contain them. — Ralph Vacchiano
The Lions demonstrated resilience by defeating the previously unbeaten Vikings, but can they realistically win the NFC without Aidan Hutchinson?
Unless the Lions acquire a strong edge rusher, their path to NFC dominance will be challenging without their top defensive player. Success in the playoffs often hinges on closing out games in the fourth quarter, a feat made difficult without Hutchinson, who is sidelined with a fractured tibia and fibula. Competing against elite offenses in the postseason could prove daunting for the Lions given their current roster. — Eric D. Williams
The victory against Minnesota showcased the Lions’ potential even without Hutchinson. They may need to pursue pass-rush assistance, potentially targeting players like Za’Darius Smith from Cleveland or Jadeveon Clowney from Carolina. Jared Goff’s impressive performance, completing 22 of 25 passes for 280 yards and two touchdowns, along with Jahmyr Gibbs’ 116 rushing yards and two touchdowns, indicates that the Lions’ offense can compete with the best. The regular season finale against the Vikings could determine the NFC North title or even the top seed in the NFC. — Greg Auman
Considering the recent wide receiver trades, who will make the most significant impact: Davante Adams, Amari Cooper, or DeAndre Hopkins?
They predict that Hopkins will have the greatest impact. While Cooper is a close second, the Chiefs’ wide receiver situation is particularly pressing. The Jets did not need Adams since they face more significant issues on offense. The Bills had only three players averaging at least 38 receiving yards per game before adding Cooper. Kansas City, on the other hand, has only one reliable receiver, Travis Kelce, who is currently on injured reserve.
Hopkins will immediately become one of the top two healthy receivers on the Chiefs’ roster, potentially tipping the scales between a deep playoff run and a championship for the undefeated Kansas City team, whose offense is poised to excel. — Ben Arthur
They also support the idea that Hopkins will thrive. His remarkable catch radius and ability to make big plays will quickly align him with quarterback Patrick Mahomes. His unselfish nature and strong teamwork will enhance Kansas City’s performance in crucial moments, such as third downs and red zone situations. While Adams and Cooper will also elevate their respective teams, Hopkins’ addition to the Chiefs makes them a formidable opponent — even more so than they already are. — Eric D. Williams
They lean towards Amari Cooper. The Jets appear to be in a state of disarray, and the Chiefs are undefeated and don’t require significant assistance. Cooper’s arrival can enhance a Bills team that has yet to defeat a single opponent with a .500 record or better. Buffalo’s 5-2 record is less impressive considering their victories against lower-tier teams like the Titans and Jets.
The Bills made a wise decision to bolster their receiving corps. Quarterback Josh Allen’s open target percentage is the lowest it has been since 2019. While Khalil Shakir and Dalton Kincaid are promising options, they are not yet ready to carry the offense. Cooper demonstrated his potential in his first game with the team, recording 66 yards and a touchdown. This strong start indicates a promising future for Cooper and Allen. — Henry McKenna
Did rookie head coach Jerod Mayo’s comments about his team being soft backfire? Was Bill Belichick justified in calling him out?
They question the effectiveness of Mayo’s public critique. Coaches often emphasize the importance of disregarding external noise from fans and media. By making such statements, Mayo risks creating unnecessary distractions. This approach may appear somewhat immature and counterproductive.
While accountability is essential, using the media as a platform for criticism can be contradictory. Such matters are better addressed privately, especially when the comments are vague and sweeping. This type of feedback would likely have the same impact if communicated during a team meeting. Perhaps this reflects a shift in coaching strategies, where some prefer to use media as a motivational tool. If it works for them, that’s their choice.
Belichick’s response to Mayo was warranted, as he held Mayo accountable for his public remarks. If a coach chooses to air grievances publicly, they must also be prepared to address the fallout in the same arena. Accountability goes both ways. — Carmen Vitali
Mayo’s remarks may have crossed a line in coaching etiquette. He had valid reasons to criticize his defense’s performance against the Jaguars, who dominated with their running game. However, the question remains whether such criticisms should be made publicly. If the term “soft” resonates with the defense, it may reinforce Mayo’s point.
Belichick’s challenge to Mayo was questionable. While he advocates for private discussions regarding team issues, he also publicly pointed out that last year’s defense was ranked first in rushing yards allowed per carry, while this year’s performance has dropped significantly. This inconsistency raises questions about the team’s current state. — Greg Auman
Which team is in worse shape heading into Week 8: the Giants or the Jets?
The Giants are in a more precarious position. While the Jets have faced numerous challenges, they still possess a glimmer of hope with Aaron Rodgers potentially returning and the addition of Adams, alongside a capable defense. In contrast, the Giants lack optimism. They allowed their franchise’s best player to join a division rival, and Saquon Barkley returned to haunt them on their home turf.
The Giants are likely to part ways with quarterback Daniel Jones. Although first-round pick Malik Nabers has shown promise when healthy, the team is facing a complete overhaul next season, while the Jets still have a chance at playoff contention this year. — Eric D. Williams
The Giants are undoubtedly in a worse situation. They rank among the lowest in scoring this season, with only 10 points in their last two losses. Meanwhile, the Jets are actively improving by acquiring players like Davante Adams, while the Giants may begin trading away assets in the coming weeks. Although owner John Mara expressed no plans for offseason changes, the outlook for head coach Brian Daboll appears grim. While the defense shows potential, the Giants will likely seek a new coach and quarterback next season, likely resulting in a higher draft pick than the Jets. — Greg Auman
