Every week here at Pats Pulpit, we'll break down the Patriots' opponent and look at how the Patriots match up with them in each facet of the game. This week, the Patriots will travel to New Meadowlands Stadium to take on the New York Jets at 4:15 PM on Sunday. A look at how I see things unfolding on Sunday:
Matchup |
New York Jets |
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Slight Edge: Patriots |
Patriots Pass Offense Vs. Jets Pass Defense
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While the Jets do have Darrelle Revis who should give Randy Moss fits, the Patriots simply have too many weapons and can do too many things through the pass. If Moss is covered, the Patriots have two slot receivers in Welker and Edelman, a big play threat in Tate, and versatility with their tight ends (who can outmatch the Jets linebackers). Plus, Jets cornerbacks Kyle Wilson and Antonio Cromartie weren’t too impressive in the opener against the Ravens. |
The Jets’ rush defense could be the best the NFL has to offer. They absolutely shut down a potent Ravens’ rushing attack, holding them under two yards per carry. The Patriots likely won’t be dominating the Jets on the ground, despite the solid opening day performance from Fred Taylor and the Patriots rushing attack. |
Vs. Jets Rush Defense
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Significant Edge: Jets |
Edge: Patriots |
Jets Pass Offense Vs. Patriots Pass Defense
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Mark Sanchez has looked awful as of late (preseason and last week), and hasn’t really shown much since being the fifth overall pick last year. While the Patriots have a young and relatively inexperienced secondary, I don’t expect the Jets passing attack to give them fits, as the group held up well against the Bengals’ strong passing attack. The x-factor in the passing game for the Jets is tight end Dustin Keller, who is big, athletic, and has had success against the Patriots before. |
2nd year back Shonn Greene wasn’t much of a factor in the Jets’ Monday Night loss to the Ravens, but could be an x-factor this week. LaDainian Tomlinson has looked surprisingly good. And while the Jets also have a good run blocking line, the Patriots held a 1,200 yard back in Cedric Benson to just 43 yards on 15 carries last week. Slight edge to the Jets just because the Patriots’ rush defense is still relatively unproven. |
Jets Rush Offense Vs. Patriots Rush Defense |
Slight Edge: Jets |
Edge: Patriots |
Special Teams |
The Patriots started the season off on a real high note on special teams last week, with great kick coverage and even had a kick return touchdown. When comparing special teams skills players (P, K, LS), it seems that the Patriots hold an even more significant edge. |
Edge: Patriots |
Coaching |
This one is going to be pretty easy to answer each week. However, there’s no question that the coaching matchup will be especially intriguing this week. You’ve got the tight-lipped, let your play do the talking coach in Bill Belichick vs. the attention-hungry, flamboyant, uber-aggressive (defensively) style coach in Rex Ryan. Did I mention that Ryan’s career record is 9-8 in the regular season? |
Patriots: 20 |
Prediction |
Jets: 13 |
Feel free to offer your own opinion!