I took a group of 10 guys to Pinehurst in late September which included a regular on this board who has played over 1000 courses (I'll let him identify himself!)... we played #1, #2, #4 and #8. While we enjoyed all of the courses for a variety of reasons, surprisingly almost everyone ranked #8 ahead of #4. It certainly has a strong collection of par 5's but to me the true strength of the course is the greens. They are certainly the best set of greens on any Fazio course I have played and are among the best I have ever played... period.
I know #8 is generally considered one of the better courses at Pinehurst but it should get more recognition nationally.