The New England Patriots travel to the Meadowlands this Monday for a prime-time matchup against the rival New York Jets, who look to make another upset after last week’s win against Dallas.
The New York Jets have always given the New England Patriots a run for their money. Since 2014, the Jets have kept all but one of their home games versus the Patriots to one touchdown or less. While that is somewhat impressive, the Jets are still 54-66 all-time against the six-time Super Bowl champions. There is only one guarantee in this game; the New York Jets have and always will compete against the New England Patriots, no matter the coaching situation.
The Jets have linebacker C.J. Mosley returning from a groin injury this week. Any fan can make the case that the Jets would have beat the Bills back in Week 1 if he had played the full game. His energy could be felt throughout the television, with his high flying playmaking ability, and he is a no-doubt key to success this Monday.
Offensive lineman Kelechi Osemele is listed as doubtful on this week’s injury report, which is a big hit to an underperforming group. It is reported that the Jets are trying to get him on the field no matter the circumstance and that he may need surgery.
No matter the Jets’ decision on Osemele and the effect of Mosley, on offense, tight end Chris Herndon being in on snaps will be a must. Herndon is listed as doubtful and is not expected to play through his hamstring injury. Sam Darnold will not only need Robby Anderson this week, but he will also need weapons like Herndon to take on the Pats’ high-powered defense.
The Patriots, who are lucky as always, come into Week 7 fairly healthy. The only real hit to the New England offense is Josh Gordon, who is out for this week’s game. Gordon quickly became Tom Brady’s favorite target versus the Jets last time out with 11 targets, six receptions, and 83 yards. He would have been a key to a swift victory this Monday.
Tight end Matt LaCosse is also listed as out, but he has not been a force this season, only being targeted six times this year. Per usual, there are many players listed as questionable, but no standouts. Expect to see a fresh and high energy performance out of the undefeated New England Patriots offense and defense.
After being named AFC offensive player of the week, Sam Darnold looks to take down the Patriots for the first time in his young career. Luke Falk was under center against the Patriots earlier this year, losing 30-14 and putting up a sad performance as he was unable to find the end zone. The Patriots, in theory, should have no issue against this Jets team.
Quarterback Tom Brady went 28 of 42 with 306 yards and two passing touchdowns against New York in their earlier matchup. The Patriots have the greatest quarterback of all-time, one of the greatest coaches of all time, and a healthy roster featuring multiple top-level defensive talents and role players general managers dream about. The team has no excuse to not win and they know that, but that doesn’t mean the game won’t be competitive. Expect the Jets to hang around for a few quarters and might even take an early lead with a field goal. But do not think that it will last one bit, as this is an easier win for the Patriots. Against their division rivals, they won’t take it easy, not one bit, as a full-force performance is in order versus the struggling Jets. The Cowboys are not close to the level of the Patriots, but that is no hot take, of course.
The Jets will give a valiant effort, but don’t expect a win. Rather, this should be a good game to build off of for the team. 1-5 isn’t ever pretty, but the team will find more respect after this game, while the Patriots go on to win more games, per usual.
Game Info
Date: Monday, Oct. 21, 2019
Start time: 8:15 p.m. EST
Stadium: MetLife Stadium
Location: East Rutherford, N.J.
TV Info: ESPN
Betting Odds
Point Spread: NE -9.5 (-106)
Moneyline: NE (-455), NYJ (+304)
Over/Under: 42.5 (-134)
Final Score: New England Patriots 31, New York Jets 21
