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Having snapped a 15-game losing streak against the Patriots in last year’s season finale, the Jets will now look to get a streak of their own going against their AFC East rivals.
The Jets will be favored in their home opener, but New England has been competitive so far, so it won’t be an easy game.
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How will both teams cope with recent defensive losses?
Both teams will be forced into adjustments this week having suffered key defensive injuries.
For the Jets, Pro Bowl defensive end Jermaine Johnson is out for the season after tearing his Achilles in the win over Tennessee. Meanwhile, New England will be without stud linebacker and one of their key leaders as Ja’Whaun Bentley is reportedly headed to injured reserve.
The Jets’ depth on the edge will be tested, but Will McDonald will look to build on last week’s performance where he matched his entire rookie season output with three sacks. New England will need to lean on the ascending Jahlani Tavai to anchor the linebacker unit.
The injuries don’t stop there, though. The Jets may also need to make multiple changes with the status of starters C.J. Mosley, DJ Reed and Michael Carter II uncertain. For their own part, the Pats are already without their best defensive lineman as Christian Barmore is on the non-football injury list due to blood clots.
Will the Jets be able to get their tight ends involved?
In the preseason, Tyler Conklin said his goal for this season was to make the Pro Bowl. However, he’s off to a slow start with just two catches for 16 yards in the first two games. In addition, backup Jeremy Ruckert, who was hoping to establish himself as a future starter, hasn’t had any catches.
The Jets need to showcase a more multifaceted offense, having relied too much on Breece Hall and Garrett Wilson at times. Getting Braelon Allen involved last week was successful, so perhaps this week could see them getting the tight ends going — especially with Bentley out.
Sep 9,…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/5-things-watch-jets-face-140033792.html
Author : SNY
Publish date : 2024-09-19 12:30:07
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