Go here for this week's Passing Matchups.
Top 5 Rushing Matchups
Kansas City at Denver
When the Chiefs faced off against the Broncos in Week 6, many expected a blowout, with Isiah Pacheco getting plenty of opportunities to seal the game. However, the game didn't go as anticipated, and Pacheco ended up with a relatively modest 62 yards on the ground without scoring any touchdowns. There is reason to be optimistic for a better outcome in their Week 8 matchup. In that previous game, Pacheco and Clyde Edwards-Helaire ran effectively early on, accumulating 60 yards on 11 carries through two and a half quarters. If the Chiefs had pulled ahead, Pacheco could have had a more significant impact. He received a substantial portion of the team's carries in 2023, accounting for 71% of them, with 15 or more carries in four of his last five games. He runs behind an elite offensive line and is considered one of the safer options for scoring touchdowns on a weekly basis.
The Broncos' struggles in 2023 have extended to both sides of the ball. Their defense, a saving grace in 2022, hit a low point in Week 3 when the Dolphins dominated them. In the early part of the season (Weeks 2 to 5), they allowed opposing running backs to have notable performances, including 96 yards and 2 touchdowns against Washington, 351 yards and 5 touchdowns against Miami, and other significant totals. While their performance has improved since then, there remains a talent gap in the defensive front on most weeks. Josey Jewell and Alex Singleton lead a front seven lacking size and playmaking ability. Additionally, the absence of safety Kareem Jackson due to suspension further weakens the defense. Pacheco may not have had a standout performance in their previous meeting, but if the game's flow allows, he should have the opportunity to excel against this undermanned Broncos defense.
Houston at Carolina
The Houston Texans haven't been particularly efficient in their rushing offense this season, ranking 25th in the league. Their lead back, second-year player Dameon Pierce, has struggled, averaging just 2.9 yards per rush and 47 yards per game. However, the upcoming matchup could significantly improve their ground game, as the Carolina Panthers have been vulnerable to the run. The Texans are expected to be road favorites in this Sunday's game, which should naturally boost their rushing attack. Additionally, some positive signs have emerged. The offensive line has become healthier with the return of left tackle Laremy Tunsil and left guard Tytus Howard from early-season injuries, helping improve their offensive line ranking to 13th in recent assessments.
The Panthers, on the other hand, have had difficulties stopping the run. They've allowed four of their six opponents, including running backs like Ken Walker III, Alexander Mattison, David Montgomery, and Raheem Mostert, to rush for over 95 yards each, averaging 5.9 yards per rush in the process. In two other games, opponents produced multi-touchdown rushers (Tyler Allgeier and Tony Jones Jr.). The Panthers' defense misses Shaq Thompson, their only proven, starting-quality linebacker, and the linebacker unit has struggled without his presence. The front line, led by former first-round tackle Derrick Brown, has been solid but not spectacular, and they lack significant help around him. Additionally, the Panthers will be thin at the safety position as Jeremy Chinn was placed on IR back in Week 5 and Vonn Bell is questionable this week with a quad injury. Bell, who specializes in run defense, further weakens the Panthers' ability to stop the run. Given these factors, the Texans could find success on the ground in this matchup.
New Orleans at Indianapolis
The New Orleans Saints are relieved to have Alvin Kamara back in their lineup after watching Tony Jones and Kendre Miller struggle on the ground. While Kamara hasn't been exceptionally efficient in his return, averaging just 3.8 yards per rush, he has become a volume workhorse once again, accounting for 75% of the team's carries with 58 carries over the past three weeks. The Saints lack significant depth behind Kamara, as Jamaal Williams struggled in his Week 7 return with just 5 carries for 14 yards. Kamara's short-area receiving, with an average of 9 catches per game, essentially serves as an extension of the running game, and his explosive playmaking abilities are always a threat to opposing defenses. If the Saints are to defeat the Indianapolis Colts, they will likely rely on a steady diet of Alvin Kamara.
The Colts have struggled against the run in 2023, particularly near the goal line, where they have given up 10 touchdowns to running backs through seven weeks. Star linebacker Shaquille Leonard is having one of his worst seasons as a pro, but he's not the sole reason for the defensive struggles. Defensive tackle DeForest Buckner also needs support on the front line, where the Colts have often been pushed around. With fellow tackle Grover Stewart suspended for six games, the situation up front could become even more challenging for the Colts as Taven Bryan and Eric Johnson have failed to fill in for Stewart. This presents a favorable opportunity for Kamara and the Saints' rushing attack.
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