The Playbook: Shadow Reports, lineup locks and projected scores for Week 8

ESPN's fantasy football playbook for NFL Week 8 features matchup projections, lineup locks, and shadow coverage reports across all upcoming contests. Key lineup locks highlighted for the slate include running backs Josh Jacobs, Derrick Henry, and Jahmyr Gibbs, along with wide receivers CeeDee Lamb and Justin Jefferson. The guide evaluates defensive matchups, strength of schedule data, and weekly sit-start recommendations.

Key situational analyses note that Josh Jacobs enters Week 8 as a fringe RB1 against a vulnerable Carolina defense, while Derrick Henry faces a favorable matchup against Buffalo. Quarterbacks Dak Prescott and Geno Smith are highlighted as strong streaming options, whereas Carnell Tate faces tough projected shadow coverage against Cincinnati cornerback DJ Turner II.