Why Patriots vs. Jets game won’t be as close as last time

Oct 16, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) throws a pass against the New York Jets during the second half at Gillette Stadium. The New England Patriots defeated the New York Jets 27-25. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

The New England Patriots have really struggled against the Jets in recent years. Four out of the last five games they have played against each other were only won by three points or less. This is the Jets last home game of the season, and it could be Rex Ryan’s last home game as the Jets head coach. Knowing that they can really hurt their rivals playoff chances, the Jets will play hard and be determined to win this game. Still this game is completely different from the Thursday night game they played earlier in the season.

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In their week seven matchup, the Pats only had three days to prepare for the New York Jets, and while that normally wouldn’t be so bad, they had just lost their defensive signal caller, Jerod Mayo, and starting running back Steven Ridley. During the game, it was evident that three days was not enough to compensate for those losses, especially Mayo. Totaling 218 rushing yards on 43 rushes, the Jets ran it down the Patriots throats, and the Pats had no answer. Now things are different, as the Pats have their linebacker position in order, and have also added run-stopping defensive linemen with Sealver Siligia and Alan Branch. The Patriots have been a lot better against the rush as of late, and will continue this on Sunday.

Taking away the Jets ability to run will change the entire game. They will not be able to control the time of possession, and it will put a lot more pressure on Geno Smith. If the Patriots can get going early and take a lead, the game will basically be over, because once the Jets feel like they have to pass, they have no chance. The Pats secondary is one of the best in the league, and Geno is no match for them.

offensively the Patriots have had some issues lately, but I think they will figure those out, even though they could be without Julian Edelman this week. This is the time, where the Patriots offense needs to get hot, and I think they will. Jonas Gray needs more carries, as he has shown a good mix of power running with a bit of explosiveness. They key is going to be the offensive line. If they can hold off the great Jets pass rushers and give Brady time, he will dissect the Jets defense and the Patriots will win.

The Patriots will control this game, shutting down the Jets defense, and putting up points offensively. With some help from the Bengals, the Patriots could clinch the Nr.1 seed this week, and I think the Patriots will complete their part on Sunday. My prediction for this game is that the Patriots will win 37-10.