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WHO: Jets vs Patriots (-4)
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WHAT: NFL betting
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WHEN: Thursday, November 13 at 8:15 p.m. ET
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WHERE: Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, MA
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KEY STAT: New England is 7-2 ATS in last nine games against New York
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PICK: New England
There won’t be any lack of drama in Jets vs Patriots betting; two 6-3 teams, a tie for first in the AFC East, head coaches that can’t stand each other—there’s plenty of storylines to go around.
The Patriots have defied the odds, owning a share of the division lead 10 weeks into the year despite losing star quarterback Tom Brady in the season opener. Matt Cassel has done an admirable job as his replacement.
Cassel’s presence was initially considered a liability, but he’s improved quickly and can now be trusted to make the occasional play to help his team win. He at least belongs in the category of good “game managing” quarterbacks; he certainly won’t negatively affect Jets vs Patriots odds.
The former USC back-up was efficient in a 20-10 win over Buffalo last week, but the real workhorse was running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis. “The Law Firm” carried 26 times for 105 yards and a score against a tough Bills “D”. Wes Welker chipped in with 10 receptions.
The Patriots’ defense produced another solid effort, picking off two passes. New England is allowing just 12.7 points per game over its last four contests, making the Pats a good pick for NFL betting purposes.
The Jets, meanwhile, looked extremely sharp against St. Louis, racing to a 40-0 halftime lead en route to a 47-3 victory. Needless to say, they covered NFL lines. That makes it three straight wins for the Gang Green.
Running back Thomas Jones had a monstrous day, gashing the Rams for 149 yards and three touchdowns. It was the third time in the last four games Jones has surpassed 100 total yards from scrimmage.
The most inspired effort came on the other side of the ball, however, as New York’s defense completely ruined St. Louis’ passing game. The Rams completed only 11 of 23 passes for a pathetic 120 yards and two interceptions.
Brett Favre was solid if unspectacular at quarterback, going 14/19 for 167 yards and a score.
The Jets vs Patriots spread favors hometown New England by four points. Both teams are on a roll and this one will likely come down to coaching and special teams. Head coaches Bill Belichick and Eric Mangini share a true dislike with one another and will be eager to dash their opponent’s playoff hopes.
STAN’S PICK: It might sound bizarre, but Mangini has one disadvantage Belichick doesn’t have to worry about: Brett Favre. The latter has groomed Matt Cassel into an efficient, turnover-free quarterback. The same can’t be said for Favre, who has been erratic this season.
This is the type of big game where Favre decides to play cowboy with the football. Considering how well New England’s defense is playing right now, you can expect a few turnovers from the future Hall of Famer. Bet on New England to get the win.
For more NFL lines and Jets vs Patriots odds, check out the BetOnline.com Sportsbook today.
Stan
Simmons first tasted football through the college game, but his football handicapping
has strictly focused on the professional sport. Not many people devote as much
time to the NFL as Simmons. For six days a week he works, labors and handicaps
the sport, and on the seventh he rests as the games play out. Thoughts or
questions? Email Comments@BetOnline.com.