It's the New York Jets vs. the New England Patriots in Week 2's Thursday Night Football. Exactly a week after the season took off, the NFL will get an early dose of division rivalry as the AFC East takes center stage. The Patriots and Jets both won their games with field goals. However, look for the Patriots to put this one away as they possess one of the best quarterbacks in football in Tom Brady.
Brady experience will ultimately be the difference in this game as the Jets go into Week 2 with their rookie Geno Smith behind center.
Let's be honest here. The Jets won in Week 1 because of a grave mistake made by a Tampa Bay Buccaneers defender. Aside from that, the Jets' chances of winning were extremely slim. However, it is football and the key is capitalizing when given second chances. Smith hustled and was rewarded with a push while already out of bounds, helping his team get the win in the season opener.
Smith had a decent beginning to his NFL career, though he could probably improve on his completion percentage. Smith finished 24/38 with 256 passing yards, touchdown and an interception. He was the Jets' leading rusher, going for 47 yards in six attempts.
With Smith as the Jets' quarterback, look for the Patriots to feast on Thursday. The Patriots' defense allowed 21 points against the Buffalo Bills in Week 1, so the Jets will get their chances to score. If they want to win this game, somebody will have to step up on offense since Smith and Kelen Winslow were the most effective offense weapons last Sunday. Winslow, the tight end, finished with 79 yards and a touchdown reception. No other Jets receiver caught over 50 yards.
As Brady continues to build chemistry with his receivers, look their dynamic running game to step up and guide the Patriots offense to victory. The Patriots rushed for a total of 158 yards, led by Shane Vereen who went for 101 yards rushing. Danny Amendola might be inactive for Thursday's game as he's been limited in practice, but he was Brady's favorite target. Julian Edelman also stepped up, finishing with seven receptions for 79 yards and two touchdowns.
All in all, the Patriots have more weapons. It does not look like the Jets have the proper parts to defeat the Patriots, but their defense will keep things close.
FINAL SCORE: 21-17 Patriots
