NFL Week 8 Predictions: Top 5 QB Performances with Aaron Rodgers Not in Action

With Green Bay Packers superstar quarterback Aaron Rodgers sitting out Week 8 of the 2011 NFL season on a bye, perhaps now there is finally room for some other quarterbacks to make headlines.

So far, so good for Rodgers and his 7-0 Packers. Any fears of a "Super Bowl hangover" have been forgotten, and any doubts that Rodgers has arrived as one of the best quarterbacks in the league have been silenced.

Through seven games this season, he has been almost unstoppable, going 171-of-239 for 2,372 yards and 20 touchdowns compared to just three interceptions for a quarterback rating of 125.7.

With his team on much needed bye week, Rodgers won't be able to dominate the highlight reels and stat sheets.

Which quarterbacks are going to step up to perform in Week 8?

Here are the top five projected quarterback performances for Week 8:

Drew Brees, New Orleans Saints

Brees has been putting up some exceptional numbers this year, so how can I not expect him to do the same against the winless St. Louis Rams. Even though the Saints are on the road, the Rams have absolutely zero ability to stop the their offense. I expect at least three touchdowns from Brees.

Michael Vick, Philadelphia Eagles

It's about time for Michael Vick to break out and have one of those games that we got used to in 2010. The Cowboys aren't as bad as they have played like at times, but I don't think they are going to have an easy time containing Vick. I expect two touchdowns through the air and another two with his feet.

Matt Hasselbeck, Tennessee Titans

Hasselbeck is set up to have a great week going up against the Indianapolis Colts. Simply put, the Colts cannot stop anybody. I think they have a good chance to go without a win this season. Hasselbeck has somewhat revived his career in Tennessee. Look out for a 400-yard game.

Philip Rivers, San Diego Chargers

The Chargers offense needs to bounce back from a loss against the New York Jets. Thankfully, they have the Chiefs on Monday Night Football. While Kansas City has improved as of late, their defense is far too banged up to stop a desperate Chargers team. Rivers should be able to go off.

Cam Newton, Carolina Panthers

300-plus yards is becoming par for the course for Newton. I expect him to hit at least that and take one in with his legs against the Vikings. I also expect the Panthers to collect another win.