2020 NFL picks, score predictions for Week 8

Los Angeles Rams (5-2) at Miami Dolphins (3-3)

Sunday, November 1, 1PM ET

As great as their record is, the Los Angeles Rams are far from a perfect team. They may be coming off an outstanding Monday night win, but they’ve got plenty to prove as they continue trying to convince the rest of the league that they’re a team worth taking seriously.

The Rams offense has been streaky this season, with Jared Goff showing up some games and disappearing in others. The run game has been surprisingly stout despite the departure of Todd Gurley, with Malcolm Brown continuously showing out on game day. The real showstopper for Los Angeles, though, is their defense.

That’s why I’m confident they can take down the Miami Dolphins in Week 8. Rookie Tua Tagovailoa is getting his first start against Aaron Donald and the Rams, which won’t be a pleasant introduction to the NFL. Look for the rookie to struggle with all of the pressure, making too many mistakes for the Dolphins to overcome.

The Rams need to keep the wins coming to keep pace with the best in the NFC. Although defeating the Dolphins isn’t an accomplishment for the ages, it’ll keep them in the thick of things as the playoffs quietly inch closer.

Prediction: Rams win 28-17