@the concept of 8 blasts for protection:
Since I haven't had the time to conduct any testing as of late, can anyone tell me how this configuration has held up vs. blue based control post-sideboarding? I'm a bit concerned about the increased effectiveness of blue blasts on this protection package.

I also think one can manage playing Simian Spirit Guides in the 8 blast setup as long as the metagame is heavily blue control oriented. I’ve run lists with similar casting cost configurations with success as long as Lightning Bolts were not being cast at my dome on a regular basis.