NFL Week 8 Predictions: Patriots, Vikings and Colts Defenses in Trouble

Don't NFL defenses get shredded in every game, every week?

Well, not really.

But with all the 40-point games, 400-yard passing performances and 150-plus yard explosions on the ground, the high-scoring football in this season has certainly ushered in the new high-scoring era in professional football. 

Defense has become seemingly optional.

These defensive units will get torched this weekend. 

Count on it. 

Indianapolis Colts

Until I see some dramatic changes, in scheme, personnel...everything, they'll be on this type of list every week. 

I know the Saints are immensely talented on offense and have Drew Brees as their quarterback, but last week was downright embarrassing. 

The Titans aren't nearly as offensively potent as New Orleans, but Matt Hasselbeck certainly has the ability to exploit a weak secondary when he comes across one. 

Chris Johnson should have a big game despite being a colossal disappointment this season. The Colts are allowing 150 yards on the ground per game. 

Need I say more?

Minnesota Vikings

Yes, I am a big fan of what Cam Newton is doing it Carolina and I think his resume for Rookie of the Year adds another impressive performance against the Vikings this week. 

Jared Allen poses a threat as an edge rusher, but Newton's ability to escape pressure and make plays with his feet will make the Panthers offense nearly unstoppable. 

I'm not worried about Carolina's passing attack—they're facing the 28th ranked pass defense in the NFL. 

You think Steve Smith won't go off?

You're crazy. 

New England Patriots

I know they've improved over the last two weeks, but those two games weren't against the Steelers in Pittsburgh. 

We think of Ben Roethlisberger's offense as a ground-and-pound type, but they're much more aggressive through the air and down the field with his speedy core of youthful wide receivers. 

No team allows more yards per game than the Patriots and to keep up with Tom Brady, Pittsburgh will be forced to throw. 

Shoot. Out.