The New York Jets will put their two-game win streak on the line against the AFC East-leading New England (8-2) Patriots on “Thursday Night Football” in Week 11.
The Jets (2-7) are multi-score underdogs.
If they’re to execute an upset on prime time, they’ll need a stout defensive performance to make Patriots (8-2) quarterback Drake Maye uncomfortable.
Jets Wire has identified three potential X-factors for the Jets’ defense.
Will McDonald IV, EDGE
Will McDonald IV finally broke out against the Cleveland Browns in Week 10 after inconsistent results earlier this season. The former Iowa State standout recorded 4.0 sacks while stringing together a dominant performance. McDonald needs to apply pressure on Maye, who is playing at an MVP-level for the Patriots.
Jarvis Brownlee, CB
Cornerback Jarvis Brownlee had his first struggles as a Jet against the Browns. Pro Football Focus assigned him a coverage grade of 27.4, claiming he allowed five receptions for 48 yards and a touchdown. Brownlee was also whistled for three penalties.
Jay Tufele, DT
Jay Tufele handled a sizable workload in Week 10 following the Quinnen Williams trade. Harrison Phillips did not practice on Tuesday with a foot injury designation, making him potentially questionable for Thursday. Tufele will be critical to the Jets’ run-stopping efforts against Patriots running back TreVeyon Henderson.
This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: Jets at Patriots: 3 potential X-factors on defense for ‘TNF’ Week 11
