Not many saw the Jets winning three of their first five games this season, now the stakes go up this Sunday against Aaron Rodgers.
When: Sunday, 1 p.m. EDT, Fox
Where: Lambeau Field
Last week: The Jets (3-2) handled their business against a banged-up Miami Dolphins team. A 40-17 victory was far more than most predicted Gang Green coming away with from Week 4. The run game was strong, the defense stepped up, and a 21-0 4th quarter put Robert Saleh’s team in the W column.
Green Bay (3-2) will look to avoid losing consecutive regular-season games within the same season since the arrival of head coach Matt LaFleur in 2019.
They’re also looking for a bounce-back win after a 27-22 loss to the Giants in London. In that game, the Packers blew a 14-point lead. Aaron Rodgers might be out for blood in this one.
Points of Interest
The Jets are aiming for their first 4-2 start since 2015. Yes, it’s been that long.
The Packers, meanwhile, have won 18 of Rodgers’ last 19 home starts against AFC teams, including 11 in a row.
Keys to Victory for the Jets
Can the defense step up to the challenge?
This is a major step up in competition for the Jets, specifically the defense. Rodgers is one of the best to ever do it at quarterback. The defensive line has shown signs of life after a slow start. Bringing the pressure off the edge and forcing turnovers is one thing against rookie quarterbacks like the Jets have done the last two weeks against Pittsburgh and Miami. Doing it against a Hall of Fame quarterback, is an entirely different story.
The Run Game
For the Packers, their run defense has been a concern since Week 1. Stopping the run continues to be a problem , this season opponents are averaging 4.8 yards per carry against them. Last week, the Giants found success in the second half with a handful of big runs.
This plays well for the Jets because their run game is trending up. Breece Hall and Michael Carter are forming a solid tandem in the backfield. Hall’s emerging as a playmaker with 18 rushes last week for 97 yards against Miami.
Zach Wilson — game manager or more?
Last week, the Jets won with a strong run game and a stout defense. Zach Wilson made sure to take good care of the football. With a handful of youngsters beginning to emerge on offense as playmakers, the temptation will be there for Wilson to try and match Rogers throw for throw.
The Jets don’t need Wilson to be a gun-slinging quarterback. They do, however, need him to continue making good decisions in the pocket.
Player to Watch
I’m going with Elijah Moore here. Wide receivers Corey Davis and rookie Garrett Wilson are moving the chains for Wilson and the offense. Tight end Tyler Conklin is making his fair share of contributions in the passing game. Moore is due for a breakout performance. Green Bay’s secondary is suspect.
Anthony Rushing is on Twitter @TonyRushingNY
Baseline Sports NY is on Twitter @Baseline_NY
