Week 1 Preview: the Bills visit JetLife on MNF


Tonight Jets Football is finally back on Monday Night Football.  The Buffalo Bills are travel to "JetLife" Stadium to take on our New York Jets in what promises to be an electrifying showdown. This MNF appearance marks a historic moment for the Jets, who haven't graced this stage in years. It's a testament to the resurgence of a team that's generating the most buzz and excitement in a decade, arguably the best Jets team ever assembled.

The Bills:

When we look at the Buffalo Bills, one name has to stand out: Josh Allen. He's not just an elite quarterback; he possesses one of the league's top three arm strengths and consistently contributes as a rusher. Partnering with Allen is top wide receiver Stefan Diggs, who's been on a different level since joining the Bills and is known for his elite route-running and all-around skills. On the defensive front, Ed Oliver leads a formidable line that will be missing future hall of famer Von Miller. It's worth noting the loss of starting MLB Trumaine Edmunds to the Bears, which weakens their defense. The Bills also face concerns on the offensive line, ranking 23rd by PFF in 2022. Additionally, there's a change in defensive play-calling, with head coach Sean McDermott taking the reins.

The Jets:

Turning our attention to the Jets, we find a team with a transformed offense. The future Hall of Famer and four-time MVP, Aaron Rodgers, now leads the team, bringing with him veterans Randall Cobb, Allen Lazard, and the speedy Mecole Hardman (from the Chiefs). Although the retirment of Corey Davis leaves the group slightly thinner, this new-look offense holds immense potential. However, the offensive line, though promising on paper, faces challenges. They've had limited practice together, and starting left tackle Duane Brown had offseason surgery. Mekhi Becton's limited experience at right tackle adds to the uncertainty, on top of being a massive injury risk (playing less than one half of football the past two years.. On the defensive side, the Jets expect an improvement this year with the addition of Will McDonald and the anticipated emergence of Jermaine Johnson. Safety Tony Adams adds speed to the secondary but remains unproven.

Matchup Positional Comparison:

Quarterbacks: It's a tough call between Rodgers and Allen, both belonging to the elite tier of quarterbacks.

Running Backs: The Jets have a significant advantage with Breece Hall and Dalvin Cook, who outshine the Bills' running backs by a considerable margin.

Wide Receivers: The Jets hold a slight advantage, largely due to the potential of Garrett Wilson and their depth. However, Stefan Diggs remains a formidable threat.

Tight Ends: The Bills enjoy a slight advantage with Dawson Knox and Kincaid, who offer versatility.

Offensive Line: Assuming they remain healthy, the Jets have an edge on the offensive line with a more solid starting lineup.

Defensive Line: The Jets possess a significant advantage here, boasting the deepest pass-rushing unit in the league.

Linebackers: The Jets maintain a slight advantage with CJ Mosley and Quincy Williams.

Cornerbacks: The Jets hold a substantial advantage, featuring the league's best in Sauce Gardner, DJ Reed, and the Nickel Corner.

Safeties: The Bills have the upper hand here, primarily due to the uncertainty surrounding Tony Adams and the strong performance of Jordan Poyer.

Key Matchups and Questions:

As we approach this highly anticipated Monday Night Football showdown, several key matchups and questions loom large. The most pressing question revolves around how efficiently the Jets' offense can operate. With limited preseason action and an entirely new system, the Jets have not shyed away from stating there may be some initial growing pains.

The Jets' ground game will be critical, especially considering the potential pitch count for Breece Hall and Dalvin Cook, who are returning from injuries. Can Michael Carter and co. pick up the slack? Will Dalvin and Breece make plays when they're on the field or will they be rusty?

Keep an eye on the Bills' 21 personnel, especially concerning the Jets' safeties and linebackers. Last year, the Jets struggled to cover tight ends when it isn't a cornerback on the assignment. With the Bills boasting two competent tight ends, Josh Allen could exploit this vulnerability. It remains to be seen if anyone in the Jets' secondary, outside of Sauce Gardner, can consistently guard the Bills' tight ends and utilizing both tight ends is the best way for the Bills to attack the otherwise elite Jet defense.

In this highly anticipated Monday Night Football clash, both teams bring their strengths and questions to the table. It's a game that promises excitement, intense competition, and the potential for some unexpected twists. 

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