Patriots vs. Jets: A Thrilling Thursday Night Showdown
As the NFL season heats up, the New England Patriots (1-1, 2-0 ATS) are set to clash with the New York Jets (1-1, 1-1 ATS) on Thursday Night Football in Week 3. The game kicks off at 8:15 PM ET at MetLife Stadium, where the Jets opened as 6.5-point favorites. However, the betting landscape has shifted, with the spread now sitting at a flat six points, reflecting a strong public sentiment favoring the Patriots to cover.
Public Betting Trends Favoring the Patriots
Despite the Jets being favored to win, the public betting splits reveal a different story. As of Thursday afternoon, 53% of the money wagered against the spread is on New England, despite only 39% of the total bets. This indicates that larger wagers are backing the Patriots to keep the game close or potentially pull off an upset. Conversely, the Jets are attracting a significant amount of moneyline bets, with 79% of the handle on them to win outright at -286 odds.
The total points for the game are set at a relatively low 38.5, which has also caught the public’s attention. Approximately 65% of the total handle is on the over, suggesting that bettors anticipate a higher-scoring affair than the oddsmakers predict.
Injury Reports: A Tale of Two Teams
Injuries are a crucial factor heading into this matchup, particularly for both teams’ defenses and the Patriots’ offensive line.
New England Patriots Injury Report:
- Ja’Whaun Bentley (MLB): Out (Shoulder)
- Oshane Ximines (OLB): Out (Knee)
- Sidy Sow (G): Out (Ankle)
- Vederian Lowe (OT): Out (Knee)
- David Andrews (C): Questionable (Hip)
- Deatrich Wise (DE): Questionable (Shoulder)
- Jabrill Peppers (FS): Questionable (Shoulder)
- Mike Onwenu (OT): Questionable (Wrist)
The Patriots are particularly banged up on the offensive line, with four of their five starters dealing with injuries. Both Sow and Lowe, who have been integral to the line’s performance, are out. This could create significant challenges for quarterback Mac Jones, especially against a formidable Jets defense.
New York Jets Injury Report:
- Jermaine Johnson II (OLB): Out (Achilles)
- Haason Reddick (DE): Out (Holdout)
- CJ Mosley (ILB): Questionable (Toe)
The Jets are also feeling the pinch, particularly on the defensive side. Johnson’s absence will be felt, as he has been a key contributor in the early part of the season. Additionally, Mosley’s status is uncertain, which could further weaken the Jets’ linebacker corps.
Key Players to Watch
Despite the injury concerns, both teams have standout players who could make a significant impact on the game. For the Patriots, running back Rhamondre Stevenson has been a force, forcing ten missed tackles and gaining 118 of his 120 rushing yards after contact in Week 1. His ability to break tackles and gain yards will be crucial, especially with a makeshift offensive line.
On the Jets’ side, the focus will be on their defensive stars, particularly if Mosley can play. His leadership and tackling ability are vital for a defense that will need to step up against a Patriots team looking to establish the run.
Betting Insights and Predictions
As the game approaches, the betting landscape continues to evolve. While the Jets are favored to win, the Patriots’ ability to cover the spread has garnered significant attention. The public’s confidence in New England to keep the game close could lead to a nail-biting finish, especially given the injury concerns on both sides.
With the total set at 38.5, the expectation for a low-scoring game may not align with the potential for explosive plays from both offenses. As fans gear up for this Thursday night showdown, all eyes will be on how these injuries play out and which team can capitalize on the other’s weaknesses.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, the anticipation builds for what promises to be an exciting chapter in the storied rivalry between the Patriots and Jets.