New York Jets: 5 X-factors to watch vs. Falcons in Week 8

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EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – OCTOBER 15: Strong safety Jamal Adams #33 of the New York Jets celebrates with teammate cornerback Morris Claiborne #21 against the New England Patriots during the second quarter of their game at MetLife Stadium on October 15, 2017 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images) /

1. Jamal Adams, SS

Adams has had some bumps in the road this season, specifically against New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski, but a lot of players are going to struggle with him. He’s also shown why the Jets took him No. 6 overall in the 2017 NFL Draft. He’s young, so the roller coaster is expected, but the highs outweigh the lows at this point.

Adams showed his nose for the ball instincts throughout the game against the Dolphins in Week 6. He had two tackles for loss (part of a defense that allowed Jay Ajayi only 2.5 yards per carry), and he had a sack. Additionally, he had a pass deflection which ended up in the hands of Muhammad Wilkerson for an interception.

He also showed a lot of discipline which his teammates didn’t. The Jets had 12 penalties for 124 yards, and he had none. He was brought in to be a run stopper and cover tight ends. He’s shown an ability to do both early on in his career, and is going to have to against the potent Falcons rushing attack.

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So far, the Falcons are averaging 120.5 yards per game on the ground. Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman have combined for 4.8 yards per carry and six touchdowns, and tight end Austin Hooper is averaging 13.8 yards per catch. This is the best rushing duo and the second best tight end the Jets will have faced so far this season, and Adams will have to be big in shutting them down for the Jets to win.

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