NFL Week 8 predictions, fantasy sleepers, upset picks, buzz - ESPN

We're headed into Week 8 of the 2024 NFL season, and we're sure you are fully prepared for the loaded slate. But just in case you need some last-minute intel, our NFL analysts have you covered at the 11th hour.

First, analytics writer Seth Walder breaks down five stat trends that could be pivotal this weekend. Fantasy football writer Eric Moody runs through five players who are rostered in under 50% of ESPN fantasy football leagues as of Saturday and who could be picked up and started in a jam this weekend. That's followed by NFL analyst Matt Bowen pointing to five potential surprises that could happen and NFL analyst Ben Solak picking one team on upset watch. Finally, insider Jeremy Fowler gives the latest buzz, rumors and news you might have missed.

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Stat trends | Fantasy sleepers
Potential surprises | Upset watch
Latest buzz

Can Colts CB Samuel Womack III continue his hot streak against Tank Dell?

Womack, a corner who was waived by the 49ers before the season and claimed by the Colts, has emerged as an unexpected breakout. The 2022 fifth-round pick had just one start before this season, but he has now allowed 0.3 yards per coverage snap in Indianapolis. That's the lowest by any outside corner with at least 100 coverage snaps, per NFL Next Gen Stats.

He's doing it through a combination of target deterrence (his 13% target rate is below the 17% average) and solid coverage (allowing a minus-22% completion percentage over expectation, per NGS). His next test? The Texans, who beat the Colts in Week 1 without Womack playing a major role.

Dell will line up in front of Womack more than anyone else since the Colts cornerback plays primarily on the left side. Dell has 194 receiving yards on the season.

Can the