The New York Jets travel to Highmark Stadium to face the Buffalo Bills in an AFC East clash on Sunday afternoon. The Bills, sitting at 12-3, have already clinched a playoff spot and look to solidify their position atop the division. Meanwhile, the Jets, at 4-11, aim to finish a disappointing season on a high note.
Buffalo edged out New York in their first meeting this season, winning 23-20 in October. Since then, the Jets have struggled, losing five of their last six games, while the Bills have gone 9-1 over their last ten, including a 24-21 victory over New England last week.
NYJ Preview – Jets Look to Salvage Season
The Jets are coming off a 19-9 loss to the Rams, their fifth defeat in six games. Aaron Rodgers, despite dealing with a knee injury, continues to lead the offense, throwing for 256 yards and a touchdown last week. However, injuries have decimated the Jets’ roster, with key contributors like Sauce Gardner and Davante Adams likely out for this game.
New York’s offense has struggled all season, ranking 31st in rushing yards per game and 24th in scoring at 19.5 points per contest. Breece Hall has shown flashes but has lacked consistent support from the offensive line. Defensively, the Jets have been inconsistent, allowing 22.1 points per game, though linebacker Jamien Sherwood has been a bright spot in recent weeks.
With questions surrounding Rodgers’ future and a depleted roster, the Jets’ focus will be on development and evaluation heading into the offseason.
BUF Preview – Bills Push for Playoff Momentum
The Bills have already secured a playoff spot but continue to seek improvement as the postseason approaches. Josh Allen, despite dealing with minor injuries, remains the engine of Buffalo’s offense. He has thrown for 3,902 yards and 32 touchdowns this season, with James Cook providing balance on the ground.
Buffalo’s defense showed vulnerabilities against the Patriots last week, allowing seven third-down conversions. Defensive coordinator Bobby Babich emphasized the need for improvement in critical situations. However, the Bills’ pass rush, led by Greg Rousseau and Ed Oliver, has been a strength, helping the team rank 11th in points allowed.
With home-field advantage in the playoffs still a possibility, the Bills are unlikely to ease up in this divisional matchup.
Betting Prediction
The Bills are heavy 10-point favorites at home, with a total set at 45.5. Buffalo’s superior roster and form suggest they should cover the spread, especially against a Jets team plagued by injuries. The total is tricky, but Buffalo’s defense could limit the Jets enough to push the game under.
Expect Buffalo to dominate on both sides of the ball and secure a comfortable victory to maintain their playoff momentum.
Pick: Bills -10, Under 45.5