The Buffalo Bills will play the New York Jets for their home opener in Week 2 this year, as well as their season finale. Will we extend our winning streak against them to 3? What about 4?
As we get ready for the regular season, the Bills need to start thinking of their gameplan for each team. With a lot of players finding new homes this offseason, as well as seeing a lot of new faces that will make an impact, the NFL is going to be a lot different than it was last year. Safe to say, the Jets team we will see this season — although similar — is not the same as last year.
GMEN HQ
First off, let’s start with our run-defense. Against the Jets last season, it was spectacular. We made it very difficult for the Jets to gain anything on the ground. In both games last season, the Jets’ running back Chris Ivory combined for a little over 160 yards. Although that’s not terrible, the key thing is that we didn’t allow him to score at all. In fact, we didn’t allow any Jets’ running backs to score last season.
With the Bills’ — what’s supposed to be — improved defensive roster and scheme, we shouldn’t have a problem doing the same thing this year. However, it is going to be a little more difficult. Chris Ivory is a good running back that can explode whenever, showing us signs of one of the best running backs at times last season. However, he is now gone and the man to take his place is Matt Forte, who made a household name for himself with the Chicago Bears.
Forte is going to be a lot more difficult to slow down and will not think twice before running through our defense. We need to stay tough, smart and alert when Forte gets the ball at the line of scrimmage.
Another important factor will be who their starting quarterback will be. As of right now, Ryan Fitzpatrick is still in a very long negotiation for a contract extension. The Jets have said that they need a deal done by the start of training camp. Although a deal is sure to be reached by then, there’s still the possibility that it’s not.
In the event that the Jets are without FitzMagic next season, who will start under quarterback? Will it be Geno Smith, the man who hasn’t shown the Jets much since drafting him? Will it be the new guy, Christian Hackenberg? Either way, I think the Bills are better off if FitzMagic doesn’t show up next season — even though we’ve done well against him since he left Buffalo.
Related Story: Buffalo Bills vs. Baltimore Ravens Week 1 Preview
Lastly, I want to touch base on our offense. It’s very important to note that the Bills are seeing their entire offensive line return this season, as well as our top wide receiver, running back, tight end and quarterback. With that being said, expect to see a much more crisp and efficient offense out there for 2016. Especially against a Jets’ team that has had a difficult time forcing turnovers on the Bills.
Although our offense was mediocre against the Jets last season, expect it to be much better this season. Combine that with a better defense and a questionable Jets’ lineup, I think we will be ready for Week 2 against New York.
What are your predictions for Week 2 and Week 17 vs. the New York Jets?