SCOUTING THE MATCHUPS
The Patriots and Jets will meet on Sunday in a key matchup in the suddenly competitive AFC East.
When the Patriots run – Edge: Jets
The Patriots challenge to continue running the ball at a high level will raise significantly on Sunday on the road against the Jets. New York’s stout front is one of the best in football, led by Quinnen Williams, Sheldon Rankins and Solomon Thomas in the middle. They spearhead a run defense that allows just 105.3 yards per game (11th in the league) and even more impressively just 3.9 yards per carry, which ranks third. Veteran middle linebacker C.J. Mosley has helped solidify things for the young Jets defense as well, while Kwon Alexander and Quincy Williams surround him behind stout ends Carl Lawson and John Franklin-Myers. That group will make life difficult for the Patriots, who have struggled to run the ball against poor run defenses each of the past two weeks. Both Rhamondre Stevenson and Damien Harris have been effective on the ground at times, with Stevenson recently emerging as the lead back as Harris dealt with hamstring issues, but it’s been tough sledding as of late. The offensive line, which had solidified in recent weeks, may be without center David Andrews who left the Bears loss with a head injury. This will be a significant challenge as the young Jets defense has led the way during the team’s four-game winning streak.
When the Patriots pass – Edge: Jets
New York’s secondary has been almost as impressive as the…
