New England Patriots at New York Jets: NFL Week 16 Pick
By Erik Lambert
Oct 25, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; New York Jets wide receiver Brandon Marshall (15) is tackled by New England Patriots cornerback Logan Ryan (26) during the first quarter at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports
One of the more underrated rivalries of the past decade, the New York Jets prepare to wager their playoff future in a titanic rematch with the New England Patriots who are once again rulers of the AFC East. Who gets the win?
Backdrop:
Another year, another pivotal game between the Patriots and Jets, two teams that have done battle for years since the start of the new millennium. This time around there is a ton at stake for both teams. New England is trying to lock up home field advantage for the playoffs, once again ensuring the road to the Super Bowl goes through their stadium where they’ve been so dominant for years.
For the Jets, it’s a must-win to keep pace with the Pittsburgh Steelers, who are in command of the sixth and final wild card slot. Losing at home to their rival could be potentially crippling since Pittsburgh has the Ravens and Browns left on their schedule, two of the worst teams in the league this season.
Matchup To Watch:
WR Brandon Marshall vs. CB Malcolm Butler
Two Pro Bowlers going at it is how heavyweight fights are often decided. Brandon Marshall was held in check for the most part the last time he saw the Patriots and cornerback Malcolm Butler, collecting just four catches for 67 yards. Given what he means to the success of the Jets offense, he has to take his game up a notch if they want to win. He’ll be at home this time, so the only thing he’ll have to focus on is Butler. Provided Ryan Fitzpatrick gets adequate protection it’s a battle he can and has to win.
Key Stat:
The Patriots are doing everything in their power to find a steady running game because its been a major challenge all year, averaging just 90 yards per game on the ground. New York goes in knowing they don’t have to worry about the run so they must place their entire focus on finding a way to harass Tom Brady. The Hall of Fame quarterback remains the catalyst for everything they do.
When he’s uncomfortable, New England struggles to do anything. He put up 355 yards the last time he saw the Jets, even though they sacked him three times. So it will take a complete effort from that defenses, line to secondary in order to get it done.
Prediction: Jets win 24-21
Todd Bowles is a good coach. He’ll have learned a lot from the first meeting and have his defense ready for the rematch. The Jets are likely to come in with a little more desperation and should have a raucous home crowd on their side. If they play the way they have the past few weeks then they can and should beat the Patriots.