3 major reasons the New York Jets can upset the Buffalo Bills in Week 2
The Buffalo Bills of this era, the ones who win a lot of games with Josh Allen at the helm, don't really view the New York Jets as a threat.
But this week? These Jets are primed to pull off an upset that throws the AFC East race off kilter just a bit already in Week 2.
New York nearly won in Week 1 before falling to Pittsburgh, 34-32. The Bills are coming off their epic, 41-40 rally to beat the Ravens.
Just those scores alone suggest what could be an intriguing showdown.
And when you look at it a certain way, it certainly seems like the Jets could win.
Here are three major reasons the Jets could upset the Bills:
Jets' rushing offense vs. Bills' rushing defense
New York ran the ball early and often against the Steelers, most heavily relying on QB Justin Fields and RB Breece Hall, but also on second-string runners Braelon Allen and Isaiah Davis.
The Jets finished with 182 rushing yards against the Steelers.
The Bills got gashed on the ground to the tune of a week-worst 238 rushing yards allowed to the Ravens.
This is the phase that could very well decide the game, and the Jets appear to have the leg up.
Ed Oliver's injury
The Bills' star defensive tackle was in a boot and on a scooter on Thursday. That's not ideal.
If the run defense was porous with Oliver, it'll only be worse without him.
It's an ankle injury for Oliver. Even if he plays, it's hard to believe he'll be at full strength.
So if you thought the Jets were committed to the run before, how about when Oliver is out? It'll be run, run, run all day long.
Josh Allen's turnovers vs. Jets
Josh Allen has 18 career turnovers against the Jets.
That's the most by a QB against a single opponent in the span since Allen entered the league in 2018, according to ESPN.
Allen has gotten better about his interceptions and fumbles in recent years, but the Jets' sturdy front and playmaking defensive backs could still find a way to press Allen into some mistakes.
Must be something about those green jerseys, which will come into Sunday's game truly believing they can pull the upset.
Titans Star Celebrates $40.5M Extension Promising Loyalty And Leadership In The Tennessee Secondary Until 2028
Amani Hooker secures $40.5M extension with Titans, vows loyalty and leadership through 2028:
Tennessee Titans DB commits long-term to franchise
The Tennessee Titans have solidified their secondary for the foreseeable future with the recent contract extension of defensive back Amani Hooker. The safety, who has been a crucial part of the Titans since being selected in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft out of Iowa, has signed a three-year extension worth $40.5 million, ensuring his presence in Nashville through the 2028 season.
Hooker expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to continue his career with the only NFL team he has known. His enthusiasm was palpable as he reflected on the significance of the extension, stating, “It’s a true honor. A lot of guys don’t get to that second or third contract, so to be in the same place for seven years and have enough faith in my play—and who I am as a person—to help this team win, it’s amazing.”
At just 27 years old, Hooker is determined to prove himself further, both to the league and his teammates. He remains focused on his development as a player, asserting, “I am not going anywhere. I have some years left in me.” His commitment to the Titans signifies not only a personal milestone but also a promise of leadership within the team’s defensive unit.
The Titans were considering the idea of a future without Hooker because they drafted Kevin Winston Jr. out of Penn State in the third round of this year's draft. However, Winston is still recovering from injuries and he did not play in the team's Week 1 contest against the Denver Broncos.
Hooker’s extension highlights the Titans’ focus on building a stable and competitive roster, as they rely on his skills and experience to guide the team through the upcoming seasons. With Hooker at the helm of the secondary, fans can expect a blend of loyalty, skill, and a strong work ethic as he continues to contribute to the Titans’ success.
While Winston was out, Hooker played well by recording five tackles as the Titans forced four turnovers. Hooker hopes to take that momentum into the team's Week 2 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams.
"We started fast. We started fast. We had great communication. This detail stuff that happens in the first game, whether it's basic fundamentals of just tackling basic techniques, but this week, we're gonna hone in on it, and we're gonna be ready to go," Hooker said.
Hooker and the Titans defense are putting their finishing touches on the preparation going into the upcoming matchup, where they will look to get back in the win column to even things up at 1-1.
