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After a so-so performance last week, the Miami Dolphins come home with San Diego paying a visit to south Florida.

While the offense showed it had some issues in the 27-13 win over Jacksonville, the defense was able to put pressure on Blake Bortles and slow the rookie down and forcing him into mistakes which cost the Jaguars the game.

The Chargers are a more powerful offense – with Philip Rivers the trigger man and a defense that looks to stop Ryan Tannehill his is weapons of choice.

Here is a look at the Chargers, according to the Dolphins website.

THE CHARGERS’ STRENGTH ON OFFENSE: The Chargers rank 30th in the NFL in rushing yards per game and they’re eighth in passing yards, so this one is not tough to figure out. But this is pretty much all about quarterback Philip Rivers, who is having another tremendous season.

Rivers has never been very mobile and he has an unorthodox delivery, but he’s tough, accurate and has a knack for making throws in difficult situations. The Dolphins also need to keep close tabs on tight end Antonio Gates, particularly in the red zone. The former college basketball player is tied for the NFL lead with nine touchdown receptions.

THE CHARGERS’ QUESTION MARK ON OFFENSE: The Chargers running game has struggled pretty much all season, and it’s not just because of a rash of injuries at running back. Yes, Danny Woodhead is on injured reserve and starter Ryan Mathews and Donald Brown both have missed games, but it’s worth noting that none of them have averaged better than 3.1 yards per attempt.

The only back with any kind of success has been rookie free agent Branden Oliver, who had back-to-back 100-yard games against the Jets and Raiders but was shut down last week by the Denver Broncos. Another issue on offense for the Chargers is the offensive line. The loss of former Pro Bowl center Nick Hardwick was a tough blow.

THE CHARGERS’ STRENGTH ON DEFENSE: The secondary was the weak link on the Chargers’ playoff team last season and they went out and did something about it in the offseason, selecting cornerback Jason Verrett in the first round of the NFL draft and also signing former Chiefs cornerback Brandon Flowers after he was released following his first Pro Bowl appearance.

Verrett likely will miss the game Sunday because of a shoulder injury, but Flowers appears on track to return after missing one game with a concussion. With Flowers and safety Eric Weddle, the Chargers have two elite players in the secondary and they’re two big reasons San Diego is ranked sixth in the NFL in pass defense.

THE CHARGERS’ QUESTION MARK ON DEFENSE: San Diego’s pass defense ranking is even more impressive when you consider the Chargers don’t have a great pass rush. Dwight Freeney once was an elite pass rusher with the Colts, but he’s on the down side of his career. Former first-round pick Melvin Ingram was counted on to help the pass rush, but he’s on injured reserve-designated to return.

As it is, the Chargers don’t have a single player on the team with more than 2.5 sacks through eight games. The Chargers’ run defense also hasn’t been that great, as evidenced by their opponents’ 4.5-yard average.

THE CHARGERS’ STRENGTH ON SPECIAL TEAMS: There are four kickers in the NFL who have yet to miss a field goal attempt this season and one of them is the Chargers’ Nick Novak, who will bring a 14-for-14 mark into the game Sunday. This is just the continuation of a great run for Novak, who was 34-for-37 in 2013. The Chargers also rank eighth in the NFL in terms of kickoff return average allowed.

THE CHARGERS’ QUESTION MARK ON SPECIAL TEAMS: Whether it’s a matter of bad luck or whatever the cause, the Chargers haven’t been very active in terms of returning kickoffs. They’ve only brought back five this season, the lowest number in the entire league. The low number probably doesn’t matter much considering the Chargers are averaging only 16.0 yards per kickoff return and their long is only 22 yards. The Chargers rank last in the NFL in kickoff return average, and they’re not that much better on punt returns with an average of 7.1 yards and a long of only 29 yards.

After a so-so performance last week, the Miami Dolphins come home with San Diego paying a visit to south Florida.

While the offense showed it had some issues in the 27-13 win over Jacksonville, the defense was able to put pressure on Blake Bortles and slow the rookie down and forcing him into mistakes which cost the Jaguars the game.

The Chargers are a more powerful offense – with Philip Rivers the trigger man and a defense that looks to stop Ryan Tannehill his is weapons of choice.

Here is a look at the Chargers, according to the Dolphins website.

THE CHARGERS’ STRENGTH ON OFFENSE: The Chargers rank 30th in the NFL in rushing yards per game and they’re eighth in passing yards, so this one is not tough to figure out. But this is pretty much all about quarterback Philip Rivers, who is having another tremendous season.

Rivers has never been very mobile and he has an unorthodox delivery, but he’s tough, accurate and has a knack for making throws in difficult situations. The Dolphins also need to keep close tabs on tight end Antonio Gates, particularly in the red zone. The former college basketball player is tied for the NFL lead with nine touchdown receptions.

THE CHARGERS’ QUESTION MARK ON OFFENSE: The Chargers running game has struggled pretty much all season, and it’s not just because of a rash of injuries at running back. Yes, Danny Woodhead is on injured reserve and starter Ryan Mathews and Donald Brown both have missed games, but it’s worth noting that none of them have averaged better than 3.1 yards per attempt.

The only back with any kind of success has been rookie free agent Branden Oliver, who had back-to-back 100-yard games against the Jets and Raiders but was shut down last week by the Denver Broncos. Another issue on offense for the Chargers is the offensive line. The loss of former Pro Bowl center Nick Hardwick was a tough blow.

THE CHARGERS’ STRENGTH ON DEFENSE: The secondary was the weak link on the Chargers’ playoff team last season and they went out and did something about it in the offseason, selecting cornerback Jason Verrett in the first round of the NFL draft and also signing former Chiefs cornerback Brandon Flowers after he was released following his first Pro Bowl appearance.

Verrett likely will miss the game Sunday because of a shoulder injury, but Flowers appears on track to return after missing one game with a concussion. With Flowers and safety Eric Weddle, the Chargers have two elite players in the secondary and they’re two big reasons San Diego is ranked sixth in the NFL in pass defense.

THE CHARGERS’ QUESTION MARK ON DEFENSE: San Diego’s pass defense ranking is even more impressive when you consider the Chargers don’t have a great pass rush. Dwight Freeney once was an elite pass rusher with the Colts, but he’s on the down side of his career. Former first-round pick Melvin Ingram was counted on to help the pass rush, but he’s on injured reserve-designated to return.

As it is, the Chargers don’t have a single player on the team with more than 2.5 sacks through eight games. The Chargers’ run defense also hasn’t been that great, as evidenced by their opponents’ 4.5-yard average.

THE CHARGERS’ STRENGTH ON SPECIAL TEAMS: There are four kickers in the NFL who have yet to miss a field goal attempt this season and one of them is the Chargers’ Nick Novak, who will bring a 14-for-14 mark into the game Sunday. This is just the continuation of a great run for Novak, who was 34-for-37 in 2013. The Chargers also rank eighth in the NFL in terms of kickoff return average allowed.

THE CHARGERS’ QUESTION MARK ON SPECIAL TEAMS: Whether it’s a matter of bad luck or whatever the cause, the Chargers haven’t been very active in terms of returning kickoffs. They’ve only brought back five this season, the lowest number in the entire league. The low number probably doesn’t matter much considering the Chargers are averaging only 16.0 yards per kickoff return and their long is only 22 yards. The Chargers rank last in the NFL in kickoff return average, and they’re not that much better on punt returns with an average of 7.1 yards and a long of only 29 yards.

There are so many reasons why this is such an important week and game for the Atlanta Falcons. Playing the game against the Detroit Lions across the pond at Wembley Stadium, the team desperately needs a win to erase a three game losing streak and give Atlanta some hope of a possible run at the playoffs.

The Lions have been streaking, proving they are not a one-dimensional team, and look to continue to show the NFL the offense may be solid, but the defense has set the tone for this team.

Both teams have the potential to throw the ball all over the field, which should delight the crowd of 80,000 Sunday morning.

Here is a look the Falcons and how they matchup against Detroit, according to the team’s website.

Top Matchup: Falcons Secondary vs. Lions Wide Receivers

One week after logging two interceptions against the Baltimore Ravens, cornerback Robert Alford and his teammates in the Falcons secondary will have their hands full with a Lions receiving corps, regardless if wide receiver Calvin Johnson (ankle) is cleared to play. With or without Johnson, fellow Lions wide receiver Golden Tate has proved why the team signed him as a free agent in the offseason, logging 48 receptions for 649 yards and two touchdowns in 2014.

Under the Radar Player: Falcons C James Stone

The Falcons rookie was thrust into the spotlight last week against the Ravens, when center Peter Konz suffered a knee injury and did not return to the game. One week later, Stone will have his hands on every offensive snap. Falcons head coach Mike Smith described Stone as an intelligent player, who has an impressive ability to identify fronts and change protections. The former Tennessee star will be heavily tested by a Lions front line that includes defensive tackles Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley.

On the Radar Player: Falcons WR Julio Jones

Many across the league believe Calvin Johnson is the best wide receiver in the league and with very good reason. Jones, however, is also an all-world talent and is looking to step up his game in Week 8 to help his team land its third win of the season, remaining in the hunt, near the top of the NFC South. Currently leading the Falcons with 49 receptions and 676 yards, look for Jones to make the most of his opportunities in Sunday’s early-morning contest.

Number of the Game: 290.3

Sunday’s matchup is a clash of a high-octane Falcons offense, ranked sixth-best in the NFL with 387.7 yards-per-game average, and a dominating Lions defense, ranked first in the league, allowing an average of 290.3 yards per game. If the Falcons offensive can provide quarterback Matt Ryan time to set his feet and throw, they’ll have a much better shot at matching that season average for yards, and hopefully some touchdowns to go with it, ideally leaving Wembley Stadium with a victory.

3 Keys to Victory 

1. Time is of the Essence: Ryan's wide receivers have said they're prepared for quick, short routes to help get the ball out of his hands early, with any extra time provided by the offensive line a big plus, leading to some downfield throws that could potentially light up the scoreboard.

2. Third-Down Defense: Atlanta's defense did a much better job last week, forcing the Chicago Bears into long second and third-down situations, before enabling first-down conversions; one week later, following another focused week of practice, look for Falcons defensive coordinator Mike Nolan's crew to be better disciplined on third downs, helping to get the ball back to "Matty Ice" and company.

3. Exceeding Expectations: Each of the Falcons coaches and players has taken accountability for the current 2-5 record, admitting the team hasn't played up to its abilities and/or expectations; now is the time. Following a strong week of practice, the Falcons may get an extra boost from wide receiver Harry Douglas (foot), who is listed as a game-time decision for the Week 8 contest. Look for the team to come out on Sunday, playing in a way that shows it refuses to return home without win number three of the season.

There are so many reasons why this is such an important week and game for the Atlanta Falcons. Playing the game against the Detroit Lions across the pond at Wembley Stadium, the team desperately needs a win to erase a three game losing streak and give Atlanta some hope of a possible run at the playoffs.

The Lions have been streaking, proving they are not a one-dimensional team, and look to continue to show the NFL the offense may be solid, but the defense has set the tone for this team.

Both teams have the potential to throw the ball all over the field, which should delight the crowd of 80,000 Sunday morning.

Here is a look the Falcons and how they matchup against Detroit, according to the team’s website.

Top Matchup: Falcons Secondary vs. Lions Wide Receivers

One week after logging two interceptions against the Baltimore Ravens, cornerback Robert Alford and his teammates in the Falcons secondary will have their hands full with a Lions receiving corps, regardless if wide receiver Calvin Johnson (ankle) is cleared to play. With or without Johnson, fellow Lions wide receiver Golden Tate has proved why the team signed him as a free agent in the offseason, logging 48 receptions for 649 yards and two touchdowns in 2014.

Under the Radar Player: Falcons C James Stone

The Falcons rookie was thrust into the spotlight last week against the Ravens, when center Peter Konz suffered a knee injury and did not return to the game. One week later, Stone will have his hands on every offensive snap. Falcons head coach Mike Smith described Stone as an intelligent player, who has an impressive ability to identify fronts and change protections. The former Tennessee star will be heavily tested by a Lions front line that includes defensive tackles Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley.

On the Radar Player: Falcons WR Julio Jones

Many across the league believe Calvin Johnson is the best wide receiver in the league and with very good reason. Jones, however, is also an all-world talent and is looking to step up his game in Week 8 to help his team land its third win of the season, remaining in the hunt, near the top of the NFC South. Currently leading the Falcons with 49 receptions and 676 yards, look for Jones to make the most of his opportunities in Sunday’s early-morning contest.

Number of the Game: 290.3

Sunday’s matchup is a clash of a high-octane Falcons offense, ranked sixth-best in the NFL with 387.7 yards-per-game average, and a dominating Lions defense, ranked first in the league, allowing an average of 290.3 yards per game. If the Falcons offensive can provide quarterback Matt Ryan time to set his feet and throw, they’ll have a much better shot at matching that season average for yards, and hopefully some touchdowns to go with it, ideally leaving Wembley Stadium with a victory.

3 Keys to Victory 

1. Time is of the Essence: Ryan's wide receivers have said they're prepared for quick, short routes to help get the ball out of his hands early, with any extra time provided by the offensive line a big plus, leading to some downfield throws that could potentially light up the scoreboard.

2. Third-Down Defense: Atlanta's defense did a much better job last week, forcing the Chicago Bears into long second and third-down situations, before enabling first-down conversions; one week later, following another focused week of practice, look for Falcons defensive coordinator Mike Nolan's crew to be better disciplined on third downs, helping to get the ball back to "Matty Ice" and company.

3. Exceeding Expectations: Each of the Falcons coaches and players has taken accountability for the current 2-5 record, admitting the team hasn't played up to its abilities and/or expectations; now is the time. Following a strong week of practice, the Falcons may get an extra boost from wide receiver Harry Douglas (foot), who is listed as a game-time decision for the Week 8 contest. Look for the team to come out on Sunday, playing in a way that shows it refuses to return home without win number three of the season.

There are so many reasons why this is such an important week and game for the Atlanta Falcons. Playing the game against the Detroit Lions across the pond at Wembley Stadium, the team desperately needs a win to erase a three game losing streak and give Atlanta some hope of a possible run at the playoffs.

The Lions have been streaking, proving they are not a one-dimensional team, and look to continue to show the NFL the offense may be solid, but the defense has set the tone for this team.

Both teams have the potential to throw the ball all over the field, which should delight the crowd of 80,000 Sunday morning.

Here is a look the Falcons and how they matchup against Detroit, according to the team’s website.

Top Matchup: Falcons Secondary vs. Lions Wide Receivers

One week after logging two interceptions against the Baltimore Ravens, cornerback Robert Alford and his teammates in the Falcons secondary will have their hands full with a Lions receiving corps, regardless if wide receiver Calvin Johnson (ankle) is cleared to play. With or without Johnson, fellow Lions wide receiver Golden Tate has proved why the team signed him as a free agent in the offseason, logging 48 receptions for 649 yards and two touchdowns in 2014.

Under the Radar Player: Falcons C James Stone

The Falcons rookie was thrust into the spotlight last week against the Ravens, when center Peter Konz suffered a knee injury and did not return to the game. One week later, Stone will have his hands on every offensive snap. Falcons head coach Mike Smith described Stone as an intelligent player, who has an impressive ability to identify fronts and change protections. The former Tennessee star will be heavily tested by a Lions front line that includes defensive tackles Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley.

On the Radar Player: Falcons WR Julio Jones

Many across the league believe Calvin Johnson is the best wide receiver in the league and with very good reason. Jones, however, is also an all-world talent and is looking to step up his game in Week 8 to help his team land its third win of the season, remaining in the hunt, near the top of the NFC South. Currently leading the Falcons with 49 receptions and 676 yards, look for Jones to make the most of his opportunities in Sunday’s early-morning contest.

Number of the Game: 290.3

Sunday’s matchup is a clash of a high-octane Falcons offense, ranked sixth-best in the NFL with 387.7 yards-per-game average, and a dominating Lions defense, ranked first in the league, allowing an average of 290.3 yards per game. If the Falcons offensive can provide quarterback Matt Ryan time to set his feet and throw, they’ll have a much better shot at matching that season average for yards, and hopefully some touchdowns to go with it, ideally leaving Wembley Stadium with a victory.

3 Keys to Victory 

1. Time is of the Essence: Ryan's wide receivers have said they're prepared for quick, short routes to help get the ball out of his hands early, with any extra time provided by the offensive line a big plus, leading to some downfield throws that could potentially light up the scoreboard.

2. Third-Down Defense: Atlanta's defense did a much better job last week, forcing the Chicago Bears into long second and third-down situations, before enabling first-down conversions; one week later, following another focused week of practice, look for Falcons defensive coordinator Mike Nolan's crew to be better disciplined on third downs, helping to get the ball back to "Matty Ice" and company.

3. Exceeding Expectations: Each of the Falcons coaches and players has taken accountability for the current 2-5 record, admitting the team hasn't played up to its abilities and/or expectations; now is the time. Following a strong week of practice, the Falcons may get an extra boost from wide receiver Harry Douglas (foot), who is listed as a game-time decision for the Week 8 contest. Look for the team to come out on Sunday, playing in a way that shows it refuses to return home without win number three of the season.

The game between the Falcons and the Giants is about as even a contest in the NFL this week that you will see.

A solid set of receivers on the Falcons roster, facing an improved secondary in the Giants defense. Two quarterbacks that can sling it all over the field – one in Eli Manning looking to find his stride in a new offense, the other in Matt Ryan, who is just coming into his own as an elite passer.

The defense for the Falcons is improved, yet injuries have done harm to the starting secondary. The Giants have shown improvement in the pass rush and the secondary is as solid as it was two seasons ago.

You never see equality in the NFL, rather you hope for it. This game could prove equality exists.

These clubs have met 21 times, with the Falcons holding a one-game edge (11-10) in the all-time series. Falcons head coach Mike Smith owns a 1-1 regular season record against the Giants, including a 34-0 shutout win at the Georgia Dome in 2012. Under Smith, the Falcons are 7-5 against NFC East opponents and 24-26 on the road.

Here are a few things to know regarding a Falcons win on Sunday, according to the team’s website and Reid Ferrin.

Top Matchup: Falcons T Jake Matthews vs Giants DE Jason Pierre-Paul

If the Falcons are going to win the Week 5 matchup, QB Matt Ryan is going to need to be protected, especially from his blindside, a responsibility Matthews embraces at left tackle. The team's top pick in the 2014 NFL Draft will see plenty of Pierre-Paul, who enters the contest with 22 tackles and 1.5 QB sacks. "He's a really good player, really explosive, long and powerful," Matthews said. "He's got arms for days, so he's going to be a really good challenge for me."

Under the Radar Player to Watch: Falcons S Kemal Ishmael

Ishmael is being asked to help fill the big shoes of Falcons S William Moore, who is out for the next 6-8 weeks with a shoulder injury. As if his tireless work in the offseason isn't proof enough that he's ready, Ishmael's pick-six against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 3 is just a glimpse of the playmaking ability the team needs from its secondary, especially against the likes of Giants TE Larry Donnell, who leads the team with 25 receptions and four TDs.

On the Radar Player to Watch: Falcons QB Matt Ryan

When you're the NFL's second-leading passer like Ryan is, throwing for 1,263 yards, you're always on the opposition's radar. The team's signal-caller has completed 101 of 152 throws, including 10 TDs in 2014, good enough for a passer rating of 100.3. For the season, he's thrown five INTs, all away from the Georgia Dome, but during the two-career games Ryan faced the G-Men in the regular season, he completed 49 of 74 passes for 538 yards and five TDs, with no INTs.

Number of the Game: 341

The Falcons have worked all week to improve in all three phases, including their run defense. Giants RB Rashad Jennings already has 341 rushing yards in 2014, including 2 TDs; if Falcons defensive coordinator Mike Nolan's crew plays disciplined football and up to its potential, limiting Jennings' yards could help lead to a third victory of the year.

THREE KEYS TO VICTORY

1. Win the Turnover Battle: The Falcons turnover ratio is minus-three, while the Giants are at plus-one; if the Falcons want a victorious plane ride home, they have to avoid the turnover bug, instead forcing Giants QB Eli Manning to commit a few of his own.

2. No Dancing Allowed: Giants WR Victor Cruz is one of the best slot receivers in the game, also potent on the outside; known for breaking out his salsa-dance celebration with every TD he scores (1 so far this season), the Falcons will benefit by preventing the ball from being in Cruz's hands.

3. Convert Third Downs: Too many three-and-out drives have proven costly for the Falcons in their two road defeats this season. In 2014, Atlanta is 27 of 49 (55 percent) on third down, while New York is 24 of 53 (73 percent). The Falcons offense is high-powered, but only when it's allowed to stay on the field: moving the chains on Sunday would open the door for the Falcons up-tempo style of play, hopefully quieting the 80,000-plus fans than will be cheering against them.

The game between the Falcons and the Giants is about as even a contest in the NFL this week that you will see.

A solid set of receivers on the Falcons roster, facing an improved secondary in the Giants defense. Two quarterbacks that can sling it all over the field – one in Eli Manning looking to find his stride in a new offense, the other in Matt Ryan, who is just coming into his own as an elite passer.

The defense for the Falcons is improved, yet injuries have done harm to the starting secondary. The Giants have shown improvement in the pass rush and the secondary is as solid as it was two seasons ago.

You never see equality in the NFL, rather you hope for it. This game could prove equality exists.

These clubs have met 21 times, with the Falcons holding a one-game edge (11-10) in the all-time series. Falcons head coach Mike Smith owns a 1-1 regular season record against the Giants, including a 34-0 shutout win at the Georgia Dome in 2012. Under Smith, the Falcons are 7-5 against NFC East opponents and 24-26 on the road.

Here are a few things to know regarding a Falcons win on Sunday, according to the team’s website and Reid Ferrin.

Top Matchup: Falcons T Jake Matthews vs Giants DE Jason Pierre-Paul

If the Falcons are going to win the Week 5 matchup, QB Matt Ryan is going to need to be protected, especially from his blindside, a responsibility Matthews embraces at left tackle. The team's top pick in the 2014 NFL Draft will see plenty of Pierre-Paul, who enters the contest with 22 tackles and 1.5 QB sacks. "He's a really good player, really explosive, long and powerful," Matthews said. "He's got arms for days, so he's going to be a really good challenge for me."

Under the Radar Player to Watch: Falcons S Kemal Ishmael

Ishmael is being asked to help fill the big shoes of Falcons S William Moore, who is out for the next 6-8 weeks with a shoulder injury. As if his tireless work in the offseason isn't proof enough that he's ready, Ishmael's pick-six against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 3 is just a glimpse of the playmaking ability the team needs from its secondary, especially against the likes of Giants TE Larry Donnell, who leads the team with 25 receptions and four TDs.

On the Radar Player to Watch: Falcons QB Matt Ryan

When you're the NFL's second-leading passer like Ryan is, throwing for 1,263 yards, you're always on the opposition's radar. The team's signal-caller has completed 101 of 152 throws, including 10 TDs in 2014, good enough for a passer rating of 100.3. For the season, he's thrown five INTs, all away from the Georgia Dome, but during the two-career games Ryan faced the G-Men in the regular season, he completed 49 of 74 passes for 538 yards and five TDs, with no INTs.

Number of the Game: 341

The Falcons have worked all week to improve in all three phases, including their run defense. Giants RB Rashad Jennings already has 341 rushing yards in 2014, including 2 TDs; if Falcons defensive coordinator Mike Nolan's crew plays disciplined football and up to its potential, limiting Jennings' yards could help lead to a third victory of the year.

THREE KEYS TO VICTORY

1. Win the Turnover Battle: The Falcons turnover ratio is minus-three, while the Giants are at plus-one; if the Falcons want a victorious plane ride home, they have to avoid the turnover bug, instead forcing Giants QB Eli Manning to commit a few of his own.

2. No Dancing Allowed: Giants WR Victor Cruz is one of the best slot receivers in the game, also potent on the outside; known for breaking out his salsa-dance celebration with every TD he scores (1 so far this season), the Falcons will benefit by preventing the ball from being in Cruz's hands.

3. Convert Third Downs: Too many three-and-out drives have proven costly for the Falcons in their two road defeats this season. In 2014, Atlanta is 27 of 49 (55 percent) on third down, while New York is 24 of 53 (73 percent). The Falcons offense is high-powered, but only when it's allowed to stay on the field: moving the chains on Sunday would open the door for the Falcons up-tempo style of play, hopefully quieting the 80,000-plus fans than will be cheering against them.