Inside view SundaJets vs. Panthers NFL Week 7 game at MetLife Stadium:
Marquee Matchup
Jets Offensive Line vs. Panthers Front Seven
While quarterback Justin Fields faced criticism for the nine sacks incurred against the Broncos, the offensive line shares some of that responsibility. This line, initially promising, has struggled significantly in recent outings. Just last week, the Broncos limited the Jets to a mere 82 total yards, leaving the offense unable to establish either a passing or running game.
On a brighter note, the Panthers don’t pose much of a pass rush. Carolina is currently at the bottom of the league in sacks, mustering only five so far. They also rank last in pass rush win rate, sitting at just 27.2%. However, they do have strength against the run, primarily thanks to defensive tackle Derrick Brown.
Jets coach Aaron Glenn expressed some optimism regarding his team’s performance this season, yet he acknowledged the need for improvement. “I really like where the players are, I really like it,” Glenn said. “But like any team, like any player, there’s room for improvement. We had our moments where we displayed dominance as an offensive line, and we need to recapture that.”
4 Down
Rico Swerve: The Panthers have achieved victories over their last two opponents largely due to running back Rico Doodle’s standout performance. He has set franchise records with 389 rushing yards and 473 scrimmage yards across two games.
Fortunately for Carolina, they might see Chuba Hubbard return from a calf injury this week, raising questions about how coach Dave Canales will manage Dowdle’s playing time.
“I think he’s excelled in everything he’s attempted these last two weeks,” Canales stated regarding Dowdle. “He’s earned his place on the field, and we’ll find a way to utilize him. I don’t want to get into specifics, though.”
No G-Force: Unfortunately for the Jets, they may have to compete without star wide receiver Garrett Wilson, who injured his knee during the last game against the Broncos. Wilson has been pivotal to the Jets’ offense this season, leading with 36 receptions, 395 yards, and four touchdowns.
With Wilson sidelined, the Jets will turn to receivers Josh Reynolds, Arian Smith, Allen Lazard, and Tyler Johnson to bolster their passing attack. Offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand mentioned, “It’s about the next man up. They’re all professionals here for a reason, and we trust our players to rise to the occasion.”
Hall Pass: Breece Hall didn’t have a single target in last week’s game, marking just the second time that has occurred in his career. With Wilson out, it’s crucial for the Jets to get Hall the ball more frequently.
Coach Glenn noted that Hall needs to focus on pass protection against tough defenses. “That is a part of our weekly discussions, but sometimes it doesn’t play out how we plan,” Glenn explained. “We sometimes have to keep him in protection rather than sending him out for passes, but we always aim to get him the ball.”
Young Gun: Panthers quarterback Bryce Young has successfully led game-winning drives in his last two outings. Since coming off the bench last season, the first-round pick of 2023 has improved considerably.
This season, he has shown effectiveness in the red zone, with a 113.8 passer rating—ranking fourth in the NFL. Jets defensive coordinator Steve Wilkes observed, “He’s handling things well on both sides of the field. He keeps his composure, even under pressure, and is looking for open options.”
Costello’s Call
The Jets aren’t staring down an 0-17 season; they definitely could have claimed last week’s game had they found a bit more offensive rhythm.
I believe they’re gearing up for solid defensive play this week, and I expect Justin Fields to step up significantly, driving the Jets to their first victory of the season.
Jets 23, Panthers 10
