The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word MISCUING
M
I
S
C
U
I
N
G
Buddy explains!

The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does MISCUING mean?
MISCUING verb- To give an incorrect cue.
- To mishit, strike incorrectly.
- An instance of something being miscued; a miscue.