Sunday, October 21, 2012

Week 7 AFC East game picks: Jets at Patriots

Lead writer Nick St. Denis and AFC East Daily contributors Dan Begnoche, Sean Donovan and Sam Hollingsworth pick the New England Patriots' divisional bout with the New York Jets.

Nick's take:
With the Patriots coming off a disappointing loss to the Seattle Seahawks and the Jets probably feeling a little too good after beating a mediocre Indianapolis Colts team, this one has blowout written all over it. However, Jets vs. Patriots games never go as expected. Gang Green will hang around for three quarters, but New England's No. 1-ranked offense is too much at home.
Prediction: Patriots 30, Jets 24

Sean's take:
The Patriots have dominated the AFC East lately, but not the Jets. The teams have split the last eight overall meetings, with New York taking the only playoff matchup. But the Jets aren't the same team offensively or defensively as in recent years, and still have to contend with a loaded Patriots offense. Tom Brady out-duels Mark Sanchez to return the division lead to New England.
Prediction: Patriots 40, Jets 17

Dan's take:
While both teams have struggled through injuries, the Patriots' offense hasn't wavered, averaging 150 yards more than the Jets per game and outscoring them by nearly 3 to 1 in their last three regular-season games. Look for New York to try to fill in the offensive gaps with some trickery and special teams play, as the squad has already successfully faked three punts this year. New England's balanced offense should have a field day at home, with the Jets forced to be one-dimensional against a stout run defense.
Prediction: Patriots 42, Jets 20

Sam's take:
We’ve followed the Jets’ turmoil throughout most of the young season (with the exception of Week 1 and last week), and the Patriots are having troubles of their own as of late. New England will put smiles on its fans’ faces with this big win at Gillette, quieting Rex Ryan for at least one night. I expect a statement-type defensive effort.
Prediction: Patriots 31, Jets 12