Famous in Our Own Minds: Pick’em Week 8

The Cavalier Connection's NFL picks for week 8

Jay Ballard

10/24/20252 min read

Famous in Our Own Minds: Pick’em Week 8

Welcome back to another edition of Famous in Our Own Minds, where confidence meets chaos and stats take a backseat to pure gut instinct. The crew has been heating up (well, two-thirds of it anyway). Jay and Jeff each posted a 2-1 record last week, while Jack… well, Jack’s doing his best impression of a public service—helping others win by fading his picks.

That brings the standings to:

Jay: 12-9

Jeff: 10-11

Jack: 8-13 (but a scorching 13-8 if you’ve been betting against him)

If you’ve been following this column long enough, you know one thing’s for sure: Jack’s cold streak might be the most reliable trend in sports betting right now.

Jay’s Picks

Falcons -7.5 vs. Miami

An injury-riddled Dolphins team with a coach on the verge of unemployment heads into Atlanta, where the Falcons already manhandled Buffalo. Jay expects another easy cover and a statement win for ATL.

Patriots -6.5 vs. Cleveland

Drake Maye is playing at an All-Pro level, and Foxborough is buzzing. Jay’s calling for a hard-fought but decisive two-score Patriots win to keep their playoff hopes alive.

Bengals -6.5 vs. Jets

Joe Flacco has resurrected the Bengals offense. After a mini-bye and a big win over Pittsburgh, Cincy gets a shot at “possibly the worst franchise in sports.” Tyrod, Fields—doesn’t matter. Bengals win big.

Jeff’s Picks

Titans +14.5 at Colts

Over two touchdowns? Jeff doesn’t care who’s playing—he’s taking those points. Cam Ward does just enough to cover the number against a surging Colts squad.

Commanders +11.5 at Chiefs

Mariota’s playing inspired ball for JD5 and may get some weapons back. Jeff continues his theme of big road dogs keeping it respectable, even in one of the NFL’s toughest venues.

Over 43.5 Jets at Bengals

Jeff sees fireworks—at least from one team. Flacco and Chase should hook up early and often. After last week’s 16-catch explosion, Jeff’s hammering the over.

Jack’s Picks

Panthers +7.5 vs. Bills

Andy “Red Rocket” Dalton likely gets the start, and Jack believes the Panthers’ two-headed rushing attack will chew up clock and keep it close. Carolina covers at home.

Giants +7.5 at Eagles

Two weeks ago the Giants beat Philly 34-17—and now they’re underdogs again? Jack’s convinced the books are broken. Dart and Skatebo’s traveling road show continues, Giants cover.

Under 43.5 Jets at Bengals

Opposite his dad on this one, Jack doesn’t trust the Jets’ offense to score much of anything. He’s betting on the defense to keep the total low. Father vs. Son: Round 2.

Eight weeks in, Jay’s leading the pack, Jeff’s creeping back toward .500, and Jack… well, Jack’s redefining what it means to be “famous in our own minds.” Whether you’re riding with the hot hand or fading the family underdog, one thing’s certain—this crew makes Sundays more entertaining than most NFL broadcasts.

So grab your snacks, fire up the RedZone channel, and remember: when in doubt, fade Jack. 💰