**Key Matchups to Watch in NFL Week 8**

In Week 8 of the NFL season, several crucial matchups are set to play significant roles in determining the outcomes of pivotal games. These micro-level battles, whether between key players or strategic units, could be the deciding factors in who emerges victorious.

**Bengals' Pass Rush vs. Jalen Hurts**

The Cincinnati Bengals will face the Philadelphia Eagles, and a central matchup will be the Bengals' pass rush against Jalen Hurts. Hurts has struggled under pressure this season, holding a PFF passing grade of 30.8 under such conditions, which ranks him 36th out of 39 qualifying quarterbacks. Despite Trey Hendrickson's recent performance with 13 pressures and four sacks in two weeks, the Bengals' pass rush has been generally underwhelming. The Eagles' hopes may hinge on whether the Bengals can exploit Hurts' vulnerability under pressure.

**Buccaneers' Screen Game vs. Falcons' Screen Defense**

Tampa Bay Buccaneers will take on the Atlanta Falcons in a matchup where the Bucs may need to rely heavily on their screen game. With key receivers out, the Bucs could pivot to utilizing running backs Sean Tucker and Rachaad White, both effective in receiving roles. Tampa Bay's top-ranked screen EPA per play goes against Atlanta's solid screen defense, which ranks seventh. The Bucs' offensive coordinator, Liam Coen, will need to effectively scheme against a Falcons' defense that has handled screen plays well.

**Josh Allen vs. Seahawks' Secondary**

The Buffalo Bills' Josh Allen will test the Seattle Seahawks' secondary, a unit known for strong coverage but limited takeaways, sitting tied for 21st in interceptions with only four. Allen, despite ranking high in overall performance, has been prone to turnover-worthy plays, with 10 thus far. The Seahawks' secondary, including standout performers like Julian Love and Tariq Woolen, will aim to capitalize on any mistakes Allen might make, given their low drop rate on interceptable passes.

**49ers in the Red Zone vs. Cowboys' Red Zone Defense**

A key element in the San Francisco 49ers' game against the Dallas Cowboys will be red zone execution. San Francisco has struggled in this area, ranking 26th in red-zone EPA per play, despite leading the league in red-zone plays. Conversely, the Cowboys have the league's worst red-zone defense, allowing touchdowns on 70% of opponent drives. The ability of the 49ers to convert trips into touchdowns against a vulnerable Dallas defense may be crucial.

**Bears' Deep Passing vs. Commanders' Secondary**

The Chicago Bears' quarterback Caleb Williams faces a stiff challenge against the Washington Commanders' secondary, specifically against deep passes. Williams has been the lowest-graded passer on throws over 20 yards, with a PFF grade of 29.7 and several turnover-worthy plays. The Commanders excel in defending deep attempts, ranked eighth in team PFF coverage grade, and have standout cornerback Benjamin St.-Juste anchoring their coverage.

**Chargers' Run Game vs. Saints' Run Defense**

Lastly, the game between the Los Angeles Chargers and the New Orleans Saints centers on the Chargers' struggling run game against an equally underwhelming Saints' run defense. The Chargers are ranked 31st in PFF rushing grade, while the Saints' defense also sits at 31st in run-defense grade. This matchup of weaknesses will be critical for both teams as they look to stabilize their seasons.

Week 8 promises to be a defining chapter for these NFL teams, with these matchups likely playing pivotal roles in the results.