Analyst: Jets will have to ‘man’ up

To film guru Greg Cosell, the JetsPatriots matchup is an easy one to analyze.

“To me, this game comes down on offense to one thing,” said the analyst from ESPN’s “NFL Matchup.” “If the Jets cannot win versus man coverage, they’re going to have a tough time.”

The Patriots have put up scary numbers on defense this year, allowing just one passing touchdown and only 48 points. Cosell expects the featured matchup on Monday to be Jets wide receiver Robby Anderson against Patriots cornerback Stephon Gilmore.

“Based on the last game, I’m sure they’ll put Gilmore on Anderson again, and if you can’t win versus man, you’re going to have a real tough time moving the ball,” Cosell said.

Gilmore has gone from being a really good cornerback for the Bills to one of the best in the NFL in New England.

“I know [Bill] Belichick and that staff focus so much on technique,” Cosell said. “My guess is that since he’s been in New England, they have focused on technique. I’m sure the physical skill set combined with a much more refined sense of technique and execution of that technique has raised him to a higher level.”

Cosell emphasized it will be key for other Jets to beat the man coverage and not just Anderson. He pointed to Demaryius Thomas, who had several big catches last week and will be matched up against a variety of Patriots defensive backs.

“He’s past the point where you’re going to say he’s quick, but he certainly didn’t look slow or plodding [last week],” Cosell said. “You’re going to need Thomas to be a factor.”

➤ Jets CB Trumaine Johnson lost his starting job after Week 1, but has regained it and has been the team’s top cornerback the past two weeks. What did he show the coaches to regain his job? “Just kept competing.” coach

Adam Gase said. “He just put his head down, just kept competing every day, whether it’s scout team or with the starting defense. Executed his job, competed on the ball.”