Week 8 of the 2024 NFL season features a full 16-game slate, with no teams on a bye. The action kicks off on Thursday night with the Minnesota Vikings visiting the Los Angeles Rams in what should be an exciting matchup. Unlike previous weeks, there’s no international game or “Monday Night Football” double-header, but two marquee standalone games remain. The Dallas Cowboys will take on the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday Night Football, while the New York Giants face the Pittsburgh Steelers in a highly anticipated Monday night showdown.
Who will win these crucial Week 8 matchups? Let’s see if we can find some value in the NFL Vegas odds.
After three years, the Los Angeles Rams and Minnesota Vikings will face each other once more. It’s an important Week 8 matchup. These two teams have had different outcomes recently, highlighting their diverging trajectories this year. The Vikings, despite their first loss of the season, remain a serious contender for the Super Bowl under Kevin O’Connell, emerging as one of the few teams capable of challenging the Kansas City Chiefs. Meanwhile, the Rams, although managing a win in their latest game, have struggled throughout the season with just two victories out of six games, putting their postseason hopes in doubt.
Minnesota Vikings -3.0Minnesota Vikings vs. Los Angeles Rams
Bovada is an excellent choice when it comes to betting on NFL games. If you want more information, check out our Bovada.lv sportsbook review.
Dallas Cowboys vs. San Francisco 49ers
After a bye week, the Dallas Cowboys (3-3) head to San Francisco to take on the 49ers (3-4). What should have been a time for recovery turned into a barrage of criticism for the Cowboys, following their embarrassing loss to the Detroit Lions. Meanwhile, the 49ers are reeling after dropping their Super Bowl rematch against the Kansas City Chiefs, compounded by a slew of injuries. Star wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk is out for the season with a torn ACL, Deebo Samuel is battling pneumonia, Christian McCaffrey is still sidelined, and George Kittle is dealing with a sprained foot.
Historically, the Cowboys and 49ers have a long-standing rivalry that dates back over 50 years, with San Francisco holding a narrow 20-19-1 edge in head-to-head matchups. Both teams have often competed for NFL supremacy, making this showdown even more significant.
Despite the heat Dallas has taken in the media, they may have a chance to capitalize on San Francisco’s depleted roster. With desperation on their side and facing a weakened 49ers lineup, the Cowboys should be able to keep the game competitive, and possibly even pull off an upset. However, the safer bet for this Cowboys vs. 49ers matchup is to take the 49ers.
San Francisco 49ers -4.5Dallas Cowboys vs. San Francisco 49ers
The New York Giants (2-5) are back in the national spotlight as they head to Pittsburgh for a Monday night showdown against the AFC North-leading Steelers (5-2). The Giants are coming off a tough loss, where they were thoroughly outplayed in a 28-3 defeat to the Philadelphia Eagles. Saquon Barkley, in his first game back at MetLife Stadium, was the lone bright spot for New York, outgaining the entire Giants offense with 187 total yards (176 rushing, 11 receiving) and scoring a touchdown against his former team.
Meanwhile, the Steelers are riding high after a dominant second-half performance against the Jets. Pittsburgh rattled off 31 unanswered points to secure a 37-15 win, showcasing their defensive prowess and offensive explosiveness. The Giants will need to regroup quickly as they face a tough Pittsburgh team that’s looking to strengthen its lead in the AFC North. Steelers to win this one comfortably.
Pittsburgh Steelers -6.5New York Giants vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
Starting out in the betting industry, Henry later found his calling in sports writing. Specializing in soccer, golf, and darts, he also offers insights into a wide array of sports across the globe. After earning a BA Honors degree in Business and Management, Henry advanced through the ranks at William Hill in England. His career isn't just limited to sports; he's also made a mark in Property and Finance, fields in which he remains engaged. Henry now resides in Barcelona, where he enjoys playing golf year-round as part of the Real Federacion Espanola de Golf.