New York Jets @ New England Patriots - October 27, 2024

As the New England Patriots and New York Jets prepare to face off this Sunday at Gillette Stadium, the tension in the air is palpable. Both teams are currently struggling, but this rivalry has a way of igniting passion and unpredictability. Given the state of each team’s performance lately, it’s clear that expectations and sentiments heading into this matchup are anything but rosy.

The Jets come into this clash with a record of 2-5 SU and a disheartening streak of four consecutive losses. They lost last week against the Pittsburgh Steelers in a disappointing 37-15 defeat. Even as the -2.5-point favorites, they were unable to cover the spread, only adding to their woes on the road where they’ve struggled with a record of 2-7-1 ATS in their last ten outings. On average, the Jets put up about 18.3 points per game, demonstrating some capability, particularly in the aerial attack with a solid average of 242.7 passing yards. Their offense also boasts respectable completion and rushing figures, yet they’re clearly searching for answers after a rough patch.

On the other side of the field, the Patriots are facing a crisis of their own. With a grim 1-6 record and a six-game losing streak, they seem to be in turmoil. Their last game against the Jacksonville Jaguars ended in a 32-16 defeat, as they struggled to cover the +7-point spread. They’ve averaged a mere 14.1 points per game this season, revealing issues that have plagued them from the start. Their passing game sits at 176.7 yards per game, and while they have a reasonable completion percentage, their overall lack of scoring is glaring. The Patriots’ defense can expect a challenging afternoon, given they’ve allowed many high-scoring games recently, contributing to four out of their last six matchups going OVER the total.

This matchup brings a unique set of challenges for both teams, and sportsbooks have installed the Jets as -4.5-point favorites, showing both teams’ inability to turn their seasons around. Oddsmakers have set the total at 40.5, which reflects the underwhelming offensive production of both sides.

Though I predict that the Jets will emerge victorious, they won’t be able to cover the spread, opening the door for a potential upset in a game lacking momentum and consistency from either side. The Patriots, while performing poorly, might just find a way to keep the game closer than the odds indicate.

Looking at the total, I foresee it trending UNDER as both teams struggle to find the end zone. With the pressure continuing to mount as the season slogs on, expect a gritty, defensive battle that may very well see both offenses struggle yet again to find their rhythm.

In summary, expect the Jets to notch a win against their division rivals, the Patriots will cover the spread, and the game total might just linger below 40.