AFC East Week 11: Jets vs. Bills
Despite owning a winning record, the New York Jets (5-4) haven’t been able to win back-to-back games all season, but they have another chance to begin a winning streak today against the hapless Buffalo Bills (3-7).
Even after getting starting quarterback E.J. Manuel back from injury last week, the Bills saw their losing skid extend to three games after falling to the Steelers. Once again, the offense was ineffective and failed to score 20 points for the third straight week. Fortunately, Buffalo should have a better opportunity to put points on the board against a Jets team that has allowed 20 or more in six of its nine games this year.
However, with the league’s best rush defense (73.8 yards allowed per game), the Jets seem to match up well against their AFC East rival, which relies heavily on the run (7th in NFL) to move the ball. When forced to go to air, the Bills have been far less effective, as they come into today’s ballgame ranked 29th in the league in passing yards (192.2 per game).
Of course the most telling statistic when evaluating this match-up is 27-20, which was the score the Jets beat the Bills by back on September 22. In that previous meeting, Jets starting QB Geno Smith enjoyed his best performance as a professional and threw for 331 yards and scored three total touchdowns. Smith has been inconsistent for most of his rookie season, so another date with the Bills could help him and his team gain some confidence.
Still, the Jets don’t plan on taking the Bills too lightly, especially at Ralph Wilson Stadium, where Buffalo has two of its three wins on the season. However, even in front of the home crowd, the Bills will probably have a tough time finding offense with their two top receivers dealing with injuries. Rookie Robert Woods will likely miss his second straight game, while Stevie Johnson will be limited – if he’s available at all – with a groin injury.
The Jets have dominated the series between these teams in recent years, with seven wins in the last eight meetings. Considering everything seems to be leaning in their favor today, don’t expect that trend to change. Take New York to cover +1 and win outright today on the road.
