Week 8 of the 2025 NFL season showcased standout performances from several players across the league, including Jonathan Taylor, James Cook, C.J. Stroud, and Myles Garrett. Each player significantly contributed to their teams’ efforts, highlighting their exceptional skills.
Key Performances in Week 8
Jonathan Taylor’s Dominance
Colts running back Jonathan Taylor continued to impress, scoring three rushing touchdowns for the second consecutive week. He rushed for 153 yards and had an 80-yard touchdown run, showcasing his explosive speed. Taylor is on track for over 1,800 rushing yards this season, bolstering his candidacy for NFL MVP.
James Cook’s Record-Setting Day
Buffalo’s running back James Cook III made headlines with a remarkable performance against the Panthers. He recorded 216 rushing yards, marking the highest individual total since 2018. This accomplishment included two rushing touchdowns, propelling the Bills to a decisive victory and making Cook a pivotal player in their offense.
C.J. Stroud’s Rising Star
Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud delivered an impressive display, throwing for 318 yards and two touchdowns. He was pressure-free for the majority of the game, completing 19 of 24 attempts. Stroud’s ability to evade pressure and find open receivers has made him a vital asset for the Texans moving forward.
Myles Garrett’s Defensive Brilliance
In a standout defensive performance, Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns recorded a career-high five sacks during their matchup with the Patriots. This accomplishment set a franchise record and underscored Garrett’s status as one of the league’s premier pass rushers, with a total of 108.5 sacks before turning 30, a feat unmatched since the inception of the official sack statistic in 1982.
Other Notable Highlights
- Justin Herbert: The Chargers quarterback threw three touchdown passes and rushed for 62 yards, leading a strong offensive performance against the Vikings.
- Saquon Barkley’s Return: Eagles running back Saquon Barkley showcased his speed and power before sustaining a groin injury in the fourth quarter against the Giants.
- Buccaneers Defense: Tampa Bay’s defense delivered four takeaways in their win over the Saints, showcasing their strength and capitalizing on mistakes from the opposing offense.
Upcoming Matchups
As the season progresses, teams are gearing up for critical matchups that could impact playoff hopes. Notable games include the Colts facing the Steelers and the Broncos against the Texans. These contests will be pivotal in shaping the playoff landscape as teams look to build momentum.
This past week in the NFL illustrated the immense talent spread across the league, with players like Taylor, Cook, Stroud, and Garrett leading the way. As we move deeper into the season, every performance will matter even more.
