New York Jets: Game preview, prediction vs. Bengals in Week 13
The New York Jets look to extend their winning streak to four against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 13. Previewing and predicting the game.
The New York Jets look like a different football team lately. They’ve won three straight and have scored 34 points in each of those games. Everything seems to be clicking. That’s why this Sunday’s Week 13 matchup with the winless Cincinnati Bengals in the Queen City is a dangerous one.
As the road favorites in this matchup, Gang Green can easily overlook the Bengals and stub their toe. Wouldn’t that be so typical of the Jets? You know it.
Let’s take a look at the preview of this AFC contest with a prediction to boot.
When the Jets (4-7) have the ball
Sam Darnold looks like a new man. The USC product has taken advantage of improved offensive line play lately to fire seven touchdown passes with just one interception during New York’s winning streak. He’ll be facing the worst defense in the NFL.
The Bengals rank dead last in yards per scrimmage allowed (417.2 yards per game). Darnold should be able to find Jamison Crowder (55 receptions, 550 yards, three touchdowns) for slants from the slot. Look for the second-year signal-caller to try a few post patterns for speedy Robby Anderson (15.3 yards per reception, three touchdowns) as well.
Le’Veon Bell (925 total yards, four touchdowns) has a great opportunity to post his best game of the campaign because Cincinnati owns the worst rush defense in the league by far (166.3 yards per game). Look for Darnold to target tight end Ryan Griffin (28-282-5) in the red zone.
When the Bengals (0-11) have the ball:
The Red Rifle, Andy Dalton, returns under center as the Bengals desperately try to post a victory. Dalton (nine touchdowns, eight interceptions in eight games) has a pair of offensive weapons that the Jets need to be concerned about: halfback Joe Mixon (763 total yards, four touchdowns) and young wide receiver Tyler Boyd (63-699-2).
Both have under-achieved this season. However, both are talented with the potential to break the game wide open. Gang Green has recorded 13 sacks over the last three weeks so look for Gregg Williams to dial-up the pressure with a variety of blitzes to make Dalton rush his throws or have him move off his spot. Tight end Tyler Eifert can be dangerous in the red zone so the Jets have to be aware of him.
Prediction
The Jets should win this game but, hey, they’re the Jets, so anything can happen.
Next. 2019 NFL picks, score predictions for Week 13. dark
I have a feeling though that Darnold will produce another productive outing and Bell will enjoy his premier effort of the 2019 campaign with 130 total yards from scrimmage and a score. Darnold tosses a pair of touchdowns as Gang Green holds on to capture their fourth straight and keep their faint playoff hopes alive. Jets 30, Bengals 24.