New York Jets: 3 Bold predictions vs. Panthers in Week 12

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - OCTOBER 29: Defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson #96 of the New York Jets celebrates a tackle against running back Tevin Coleman #26 (not pictured) of the Atlanta Falcons during the third quarter of the game at MetLife Stadium on October 29, 2017 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images) /

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EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – NOVEMBER 02: Tyrod Taylor #5 of the Buffalo Bills is sacked by Jordan Jenkins #48 of the New York Jets during the first quarter of the game at MetLife Stadium on November 2, 2017 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

2. Rookie linebackers will contain Cam Newton

This is the game that Jordan Jenkins and Darron Lee will take the next step in their maturation. Against the Buffalo Bills, they were able to be patient and disciplined and contain Tyrod Taylor. With that said, Cam Newton is a different type of quarterback because of his size and speed.

It will be their responsibility to maintain gap integrity alongside Kony Ealy and Demario Davis. The running ability of Newton means they must not over-run and set the edge, so he can be funneled to the middle. Lee must then tackle well, like he has all season long.

Newton is a tough man to bring down, but it’s a must to beat the Panthers. The Jets can’t allow him to move around and make plays with his legs. Otherwise, it’s going to be a long day for this defense. They will do their jobs and play well against Newton on pass plays that break down and designed quarterback runs.

This is the game that Lee and Jenkins both breakout and show what kind of linebacker tandem they can be. Teams will have to start game planning to stop these guys, and that will open things up for Wilkerson and Williams.

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