New York Jets: Beating Patriots both times in 2018 is a must

In order to prove they are really on the rise, the New York Jets must defeat the New England Patriots in both meetings in 2018.

Pro wrestling legend Ric Flair commonly said, “To be the man, you’ve got to beat the man!” Well, currently the kings of the AFC East are the New England Patriots, and their dynasty may be beginning to crumble. So, the New York Jets need to take advantage of that in 2018 and beat them twice.

In 2001, Tom Brady took over for an injured Drew Bledsoe after Mo Lewis knocked him out of the game the Jets won. Since that fateful day the Patriots and Brady have owned the Jets to the tune of a 27-6 record with an average margin of victory of two touchdowns when Brady starts.

In the 17 seasons prior to the arrival of Brady, the Jets defeated the Patriots 17 times with an average margin of victory of 13. So, in order to eventually take the crown, they will have to knock out the kings. They need to establish that they can beat the kings and do so in convincing fashion.

They play the Patriots twice after Thanksgiving. That means both the identity of the team is in place, and the team will have had worked together for 10 games and 11 weeks. So that means — especially if they start the rookie quarterback Week 1 — they will have plenty of work together and know each other well.

Let’s be honest, there are plenty of holes on the Patriots defense, and the only weapon they have on offense is Rob Gronkowski. So, this Patriots team is ripe for the pickings. Now is the time to act and start to attack the mighty Patriots. If they want to start building toward a future as contenders, they must start by knocking of the kings of the AFC East.