New England Patriots

Patriots at Jets: Preview, Predictions, and More

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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New England Patriots vs. New York Jets

It’s the story of two seasons headed in opposite directions as the New York Jets play host to the New England Patriots on Sunday afternoon. It’s a rivalry that has created some memorable moments, as this week is the four-year anniversary of the “Butt Fumble.” Jets fans remember better moments, like the divisional playoff victory in New England during the 2010 playoffs, a pinnacle moment of the Rex Ryan era.

It has been a different story for New York as they head into this one with a 3-7 record. Coming out of their bye week, they last saw the field in a 9-6 loss to the Los Angeles Rams. Bryce Petty started the game and, though fans have clamored for him to remain the starter, Ryan Fitzpatrick returns this week. Coach Todd Bowles feels he gives the team the best chance to win so the “Fitzmagic” returns. Well, as much as it can for the NFL’s leader in interceptions thrown anyway.

Despite missing Tom Brady for the first four games due to suspension, the Patriots enter the game riding high with an 8-2 record. They hold a two game lead in the AFC East and a whopping 5-0 record at home. Brady is playing vintage Brady football, completing 70 percent of his passes and throwing 16 touchdowns vs. only one interception. He is in the conversation for MVP once again, and the Patriots continue to be the Patriots.

Keys To Victory

It sounds cliché, but New York needs to play the perfect game to win this one. Yes, they have upset the Patriots before, as recently as last December. But, this is not the same team. They have suffered without Eric Decker, despite the emergence of Quincy Enunwa. A defense that was strong in 2015 has been week in 2016, led by the decline of Darrelle Revis. They are going to have to be perfect, especially on offense.

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The way to beat Tom Brady on defense is to get pressure up the middle. Double A-Gap pressure must be the order of the day for the Jets. Pressure between the center and the guards will make him uncomfortable and potentially force Brady into mistakes. A scheme such as this will give the Jets the best chance to win.

For New England, they need to do what they do best. They must throw the ball all over the field. It’s amazing, the success they have been able to sustain without a consistent running attack. The running backs have been a revolving door through the years, leading to LeGarrette Blount currently, but the success is always a constant. Brady makes everyone better and New York cannot stop the downfield passing attack. It should be a big afternoon for No. 12.

Odds

Point Spread: Patriots -8.5
Moneyline: Patriots -390, Jets +310
Over/Under: 47

Prediction

This is not going to be a good day for New York. New England will score early and often. The Jets, on the other hand, will not.

Pick: New England Patriots: 45, New York Jets: 14

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