Colts, Patriots Lead Survivor Pool Strategies for NFL Week 8

The ESPN Eliminator Challenge continues to draw attention among NFL fans as participants strategize their picks for Week 8. This week, the Indianapolis Colts and New England Patriots emerge as the top options, bolstered by their favorable matchups. With the rules straightforward—choose one team to win, and if they succeed, you advance—participants are eager to capitalize on a season characterized by predictability.

In Week 7, an impressive 93% of remaining entries successfully advanced, marking a season where the expected outcomes have largely played out. This year has seen a low number of upsets, with only five instances of teams winning against the spread as at least six-point underdogs, the fewest since the Super Bowl era began in 2005.

Colts and Patriots Stand Out

The Colts currently face the Tennessee Titans, who rank as the worst team in the NFL. Indianapolis is favored by 14.5 points, with ESPN Analytics giving them an 89% chance of winning the matchup. This positioning makes them a compelling choice for participants who have yet to select them. The Colts’ offense is on pace for the highest success rate observed this century, rendering them the most attractive option this week.

For those who have already used the Colts, the Patriots offer a solid alternative against the Cleveland Browns. With a 68% chance of victory according to ESPN Analytics, New England is also one of the week’s larger favorites. What sets the Patriots apart is their potential for multiple future selections, as they still have upcoming games against the New York Jets and the Miami Dolphins. Currently, only 5% of participants have selected them, suggesting they may be a valuable choice as their popularity is likely to increase.

Other Viable Options

The Atlanta Falcons could be a strategic pick against the Miami Dolphins, who have struggled defensively this season. Miami ranks last in defensive expected points added (EPA) per play, and the Falcons are projected to have a 62% chance of winning this matchup. This game might represent the Falcons’ easiest remaining challenge, making it a strong consideration for participants.

The Philadelphia Eagles face the New York Giants, who previously upset them in Week 6. Despite this setback, the Eagles are still viewed as a strong contender, with a 65% chance of victory. Historical trends suggest that teams usually rebound in rematches after losing as favorites, bolstering the Eagles’ chances.

Finally, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers could be a dark horse pick against the Saints, with a 65% win probability. As the season progresses, monitoring the performance of these teams will be crucial for participants aiming to navigate the Eliminator Challenge successfully.

With Week 8 approaching, participants must weigh their options carefully. The Colts and Patriots lead the pack, but strategic selections of teams like the Falcons, Eagles, and Buccaneers could also pay off. As the season unfolds, the challenge remains both a test of knowledge and a thrilling aspect of NFL fandom.