Jets vs. Chiefs: Week 3 Matchup Preview
September 20, 2016
In week 3, the New York Jets battle the Kansas City Chiefs in a much-anticipated matchup. The New York jets are coming off an outstanding performance against the Buffalo Bills on Thursday night backed by Forte’s three touchdowns. On the other hand, the Chiefs are coming off a tough loss against the Houston Texans. In the matchup between the Jets and Chiefs, I expect the Jets to take the victory.
In order for the Jets to be victorious, the Jets need to find a way to limit Alex Smith’s production at quarterback. In the Chief’s first game, Alex Smith threw for over 300 yards in a victory to start their season. However, in the Chief’s loss, Smith threw for under 200 yards. Therefore, if the Jets limit Smith’s production, the Jets stand a great chance of winning. To shut down Smith, the Jets need to pressure Smith to get rid of the ball fast and to not let passing plays develop. With the Jets stacked the defensive line of Wilkerson, Williams, and Richardson, this objective will not be too hard to accomplish. The Jets, however, need to improve their secondary. In each of the two games this season, the Jets secondary has been beaten on deep passes multiple times. Therefore, a key to success this week will be the prevention of long pass plays by the Jets secondary.
On the offensive side, the Jets need to see the continued running dominance of Matt Forte. The addition of Forte to the Jets has proved to be a crucial addition to the Jets offense as Forte has already rushed for 196 yards and three touchdowns in only two games. Another solid game from Forte will help achieve another Jets victory. Furthermore, Fitzpatrick needs to continue his performance at quarterback. The Chiefs will have their hands full Sunday as they have to cover wide receivers Eric Decker, Brandon Marshall, and Quincy Enunwa, each of them contributing a great performance last game against the Bills. Although the Jets have a great chance of notching a win against the Chiefs, many things need to fall in place in order to ensure their victory.