NFL Week 8 Picks: New England Patriots and Teams That Will Continue to Dominate

It's tough enough to beat a powerhouse in the NFL.

When that same powerhouse is on a roll, it can be virtually impossible.

Headed into Week 8, several teams are rolling right along, making quick work of their opponents and improving all the while.

The New England Patriots are no strangers to dominating lesser foes mercilessly. Their Week 8 matchup will be close, but they'll prove they're the better team in the end.

Here are three strong teams that will continue to dominate in Week 8 (based on level of domination).

3. New England Patriots (5-1)

The Patriots have won three straight games since losing to the Buffalo Bills in Week 3.

They're also coming off a bye week and you know how head coach Bill Belichick is a master of preparation.

The Patriots will head into hostile Heinz Field in Week 8 to face the Pittsburgh Steelers, but it won't matter. Led by quarterback Tom Brady and sporting a rushing attack this season that is averaging 4.6 yards per carry, it's no wonder the Patriots are averaging 30.8 points per game this season, fourth in the league.

The Steelers' pass defense has been great as usual this season, but that doesn't always matter against Brady. Also, the Steelers' rush defense has fallen, giving up 4.5 yards per carry.

2. San Francisco 49ers (5-1)

What the 49ers have done this season has been remarkable.

Rookies Aldon Smith, Kendall Hunter and defensive end-turned-fullback Bruce Miller have all appeared to be great selections and cornerback Carlos Rogers has revitalized his career.

And don't forget head coach Jim Harbaugh, who seems to be having quite a bit of fun in his first season in the NFL.

The 49ers face the Cleveland Browns in Week 8, a team that scored a whole six points against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 7.

If the Browns scored six points against a mediocre Seahawks defense, imagine how bad they'll look against a 49ers defense giving up just 16.2 points per game this season.

The 49ers will dominate this game on defense alone.

1. New Orleans Saints (5-2)

After destroying the Indianapolis Colts, 62-7, the Saints have the pleasure of facing the 0-6 St. Louis Rams, who are making a case as the worst team in the league. 

In Week 8, the Rams may be without starting quarterback Sam Bradford. They also figure to be rocked through the air and the ground. Expect the Saints passing game to be solid as usual and the running game to blast through a defense that is giving up a league-worst 5.5 yards per carry.

Darren Sproles enthusiasts will rejoice. As well as enthusiasts of any Saints player.