Jets (1-3) at Falcons (1-3)
Sunday, 9:30 a.m. ET, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London TV: NFL Network
Tipico Sportsbook line: Falcons by 3 ⁄2
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Jets’ keys to victory: For the Jets to have a chance, they must get out to an early lead and play mistake-free football. Running the ball will keep the Falcons defense honest and prevent it from teeing off on QB Zach Wilson. If New York’s front seven can get pressure on QB Matt Ryan, it will have a chance to take the ball away. Atlanta has been struggling to stop interior pressure with two new linemen starting at center and left guard. The Jets must be more physical than the Falcons, who are still finding their identity under first-year head coach Arthur Smith.
Falcons’ keys to victory: Pressuring rookie quarterbacks is a consistent recipe for success, and Wilson has already shown he can get rattled, throwing eight interceptions over the first four weeks of the season. Atlanta doesn’t have a great pass rush, but the unit is improving each week. Against a poor offensive line like New York’s, look for LB Dante Fowler and DL Grady Jarrett to be in Wilson’s face for most of the game.
Matchup to watch: Jets WR Corey Davis vs. Falcons CB A.J. Terrell. The Jets don’t have many explosive playmakers on the roster, but Davis – a former No. 5 overall pick – is developing chemistry with Wilson and has become his preferred target. Standing across from Davis will be Terrell, the team’s best defensive back.
Who wins? The Falcons have the experience advantage, and even though both teams are flawed, Atlanta’s veteran leadership will help it win the game comfortably.
Falcons, 24-13