NFL picks Week 8: Falcons-Buccaneers and every other game

Sep 18, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) throws his second touchdown pass in the first quarter of their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

It can be so tough to predict the NFL sometimes. I went 9-5 last week, with my biggest mistake coming with the Thursday night game. I went for a San Francisco upset over Seattle. When those brave picks come off you look great, but when they don’t you look a fool.

You look an ever bigger fool when you write that it doesn’t matter if the Bills-Jaguars game is played in Florida, London or New York, the only winner is Buffalo. Yeah, I’m eating humble pie this week. But nonetheless, I’m 69-35 on the year, and I will take that. All lines are provided by OddsShark.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Atlanta Falcons (-7.5)

Atlanta (6-1) has been awful offensively of late, but I think they get it together in a big divisional contest with Tampa Bay (2-4). Devonta Freeman and Julio Jones are healthy and playing well, and Matt Ryan will play more like the Matt Ryan we know.

Pick: Atlanta 24, Tampa Bay 14

Miami Dolphins at New England Patriots (-8)

Miami (3-3) has certainly improved in recent weeks, but this is different kind of test. Under the bright primetime lights and at home, New England (6-0) will be too strong for its division rival. The Dolphins will have some success offensively, but the defense won’t be able to hold up against Tom Brady.

Pick: New England 35, Miami 24

Next: Early games