QB Andrew Luck, Colts at Panthers – “The Machine” projection: 23.0
It’s no secret that the Colts are in disarray. After finishing 11-5 last season, the Colts have been the headline of sporting news as they already lost four of their first seven games. Quarterback, Andrew Luck, has already missed two games and thrown nine interceptions. Week eight sends him to North Carolina to face a Panthers defense that has picked off nine passes. It’s hard to see the Colts turning it around against an unbeaten team at home. Luck will likely throw often and to the Panthers’ defense.
RB Duke Johnson Jr., Cardinals at Browns – “The Machine” projection: 13.3
“The Machine” projects Duke Johnson to be the 11th highest scoring running back in week eight. This after accumulating 90 total yards against the Rams in week seven. Johnson plays the NFC West leading Cardinals in week eight. The Cardinals are allowing just 97.4 rushing yards per game and have allowed only three rushing touchdowns on the season. It’s worth mentioning that Johnson gained most of his yards through the air last week, but the Cardinals are a good passing defense too.
WR Demaryius Thomas, Packers at Broncos – “The Machine” projection: 19.4
Demaryius Thomas hasn’t been the top receiver we’re used to seeing constantly in fantasy news. Thanks to Peyton Manning’s struggles, Thomas has only eclipsed 100 receiving yards in two games this season. Week eight puts Thomas in the Sunday night spotlight against the unbeaten Green Bay Packers. Even though the Packers’ defense isn’t elite, they’ve allowed just seven receiving touchdowns on the season. Assuming the game will be close, expect the Broncos to stick with their run game. It’s also hard to see Manning having a breakout game against the NFC’s best team, but stay tuned for fantasy updates throughout the week.
TE Martellus Bennett, Vikings at Bears – “The Machine” projection: 14.8
There’s no doubt that Bennett is exponentially better with Jay Cutler behind center. Week eight brings the Vikings to the Windy City to face the 2-4 Bears. Bennett and the Bears are coming off a BYE week and should be fully rested. Unfortunately, they’ll face a Vikings defense that’s surrendered just eight receiving touchdowns on the year. Expect the Bears to stick with their run game as John Fox has stressed ever since he arrived.
