Detroit Lions: New York Jets’ expert predicts Motown victory
With the Detroit Lions facing the New York Jets in Week One, we went behind enemy lines to ask five questions about the upcoming Monday night matchup.
The Detroit Lions will face the New York Jets on Monday night in their regular season home opener at Ford Field. It is an intriguing matchup with several interesting storylines on both sides.
In order to get a different perspective on the contest, we decided to go behind enemy lines with our good friends over at The Jet Press, FanSided’s news and opinion site about all things New York Jets. Here’s site expert Luis Tirado Jr.’s answers to our five questions.
#1 – What do you believe we’ll see from Sam Darnold in his first NFL start?
LT: I believe a lot of football fans will see a calm, cool, and collective young quarterback that has the ability to not let anything phase him. His first NFL start should prove to be a good one as he’s been solid all throughout training camp and preseason action.
Expect to see a lot of accuracy and good pocket awareness from start to finish by Darnold.
#2 – Is there a concern that the Jets’ rushing attack will not be able to support their young QB under center?
LT: The Jets are hoping that Isaiah Crowell and Bilal Powell can do just enough to establish the run in this Week 1 matchup. Keep an eye on Trent Cannon as this kid is so fast, you’ll have to replay his breakout plays once he gets into a rhythm.
#3 – What would you consider to be the Jets’ biggest strength? Biggest weakness?
LT: The biggest strength for the Jets is easily their defensive secondary with Jamal Adams, Morris Claiborne, Trumaine Johnson, and Buster Skrine all having the potential to be a top-10 unit. Safety Marcus Maye might miss or be limited in his matchup due to a foot injury but besides that, it’s a very strong group. Their biggest weakness will be their lack of an overall pass rush.
The Jets didn’t do much to bolster this part of the defense as defensive end Leonard Williams can’t be expected to do it all. Defensive end Nathan Shepherd looks to be a solid pickup but rookies will always have growing pains as it’s not expected he’ll be great right from the start.
#4 – Who is one relatively unknown player that will surprise Lion fans on Monday night?
LT: Running back Trent Cannon for sure, I haven’t seen a player that fast in a few years as it will be interesting to see how the Jets use him on offense on Monday Night Football.
Next. The Detroit Lions All-Time Offensive Team. dark
#5 – Your prediction for the upcoming game and score.
LT: As much as I hate to say it, I see the Lions beating the Jets 24-16. The Jets will be kicking a lot of field goals in this matchup and likely score a touchdown on the ground late in the game. The Lions have a lot more weapons on offense to score consistently as the Jets offense is still a work in progress.