The New England Patriots (0-2) take on the New York Jets (1-1) at MetLife Stadium at 1:00 pm on Sunday, September 23. Neither the Patriots nor the Jets seem to be the cream of the crop of the AFC in 2023, let alone the AFC East. It will not be easy for either of these teams to get the upper hand against the Miami Dolphins and Buffalo Bills. Therefore, this game will be very important for both Bill Belichick and Robert Saleh.
The Patriots are the favorite in East Rutherford, New Jersey, where 80,000-plus fans should be watching a very intriguing game. There should be some rain for what is expected to be an extremely low-scoring game. Both Mac Jones and Zach Wilson have been lacking in terms of putting up large numbers in terms of points. It should be more of the same Sunday.
New England Patriots vs. New York Jets Pregame Analysis
There are several reasons for the Patriots to be favorites against the Jets. It appears that Belichick’s handling of Gang Green has something to do with it. From Todd Bowles to Adam Gase to Robert Saleh, the Patriots have dominated.
The Jets have not beaten the Patriots since 2015 🤯
Will the streak end this Sunday? 🔮 pic.twitter.com/3WMcBU0RPi
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) September 21, 2023
It has been a miserable existence for Jets fans when it comes to facing New England. In addition, the Jets have not made the playoffs since Rex Ryan was coaching them in 2010.
Can the Patriots continue their success? It will come down to their strong defense in addition to their quarterback. Mac Jones has not had strong success though when it comes to close games:
Mac Jones
In his 17 losses, 14 of the games, in the 4th Qtr, were a one possession game, in the 4th Qtr
More than 1 possession
12/1/22 vs BUF
10/24/22 vs CHI
9/11/22 @ MIAMac and Patriots start flipping any of those 14 close losses and the future will get brighter fast
— Boston Sports Info (@bostonsportsinf) September 22, 2023
It will not be easy for Mac on Sunday with a great defense on the other side. Although the Jets have a weak offense, that will not determine if the Patriots quarterback can come through in Week 3. It will come down to the big plays at the end of the game.
Zach Wilson’s offense has not been particularly impressive through two games. His team put together an impressive victory in Week 1 against Buffalo. Then in Week 2, Wilson threw another touchdown to Garrett Wilson:
No Aaron Rodgers, no problem?
Zach Wilson connects with Garrett Wilson for a 68-yard Jets TD 🙌
🎥 @NFL pic.twitter.com/JV5PsuUNvh
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) September 17, 2023
Unfortunately, that is one of the only highlights for the Jets in their 30-10 loss to Dallas. The Jets look to bounce back in Week 3. New York does not have an easy schedule before its Week 7 bye, so this game against New England is very important.
All lines and odds courtesy of BetMGM.
Betting Info for New England Patriots vs. New York Jets
New England Patriots -150
New York Jets +125
New England Patriots -2.5 (-120)
New York Jets +2.5 (+100)
Total:Â
New England Patriots-New York Jets O/U 36 (-110/-110)
Picks and Predictions for the New England Patriots vs. New York Jets
New England Patriots -2.5 (-120)
The Patriots appear to be in desperation mode heading into Week 3, as their playoff hopes are already dwindling. Belichick and company need to make an imprint on this game, and a three-point victory is definitely in the realm of possibilities. A 10-point victory is reasonable as well.
