Week 8 NFL picks against the spread (Yanotchko)

Here are my Week 8 NFL picks against the spread:

Detroit Lions -3 (over Dallas Cowboys)

In what should be a memorable shootout, two of the worst pass defenses will square off in Detroit.

As of late, the Lions have been getting the better of the Cowboys as Detroit has gone 3-1 against the spread in their recent matchups. Although both passing defenses are abysmal, I think the Lions will exploit Dallas more, as they have given up 292 yards per game and 14 touchdowns.

I also like the ability of the Lions to attack on the ground with Reggie Bush, as the Cowboys are very one-dimensional if DeMarco Murray, who is listed as questionable, is unable to return as some expect. I am going to lay the 3 for the home team here, as the Lions will need this W to keep pace in the wildcard pack.

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Washington Redskins +12.5 (over Denver Broncos)

It was quite the surprise to see the Broncos stumble last week, and now they will be back home in the friendly confines of Mile High.

The Redskins had quite the shootout win against the Bears last week, and Robert Griffin III turned in his best performance of the year. Against the vaunted Bears passing defense, RGIII was able to throw for 298 yards and two scores, and more importantly he rushed for 84 yards. The Broncos, of course, still have the worst passing defense in the league, as they have given up 320 yards and 14 passing touchdowns. The Redskins have been on track offensively, as they have only failed to score less than 20 points once this year.

I cannot say that Washington will win this game, but I think the 12.5 points are way too generous in Mike Shanahan’s return to Denver. Anytime I can get 12.5 points with a competent offensive team playing a weak defense, I will take it.

Pittsburgh Steelers -2.5 (over Oakland Raiders)

The Steelers have shown signs of life recently, as they have ripped off two wins in a row and will look to make it three in Oakland.

The Raiders have been frisky this year, and it looks like they will have a quarterback of the future in Terelle Pryror. Although Pryor has played well this year, the Raiders are still the lowest-ranked passing offense in the league, and they have to go against a Steelers defense that allows only 198 yards per game and 5 touchdowns.

Pittsburgh will have the edge throwing the ball against the Raiders pass defense that allows 241 yards per game, and they do not have an answer at corner for Antonio Brown. I love the Steelers to take the road victory this week, as the veteran team with momentum will be able to overcome a 2.5-point hurdle.

Five of our contributors make three weekly picks ATS every week and they will be posted here.

Week 8 fantasy rankings: Quarterbacks – Running Backs – Wide Receivers – Tight Ends

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