Monday Night Football: Ravens vs. Jets Picks & Predictions
By Anthony Rome
In one of the best matchups on the Week 1 schedule, the New York Jets will open up at home against the Baltimore Ravens on Monday Night Football. Let’s break down the game and make a prediction.
Oddsmakers from online sports book BroburySports.com have made the Jets 1-point favorites over the Ravens for tonight’s game. The over/under total is currently sitting at 36 points.
The Ravens Win If:
They stop the run and force Mark Sanchez to throw the ball. Everyone knows about the Jets’ stout defense, so time of possession, turnovers and field position are the three things the Ravens must count on. If they can stop running backs Shonn Greene and LaDainian Tomlinson and force Sanchez to make plays with his arm, they’re going to be in great shape to win. It won’t matter how good Rex Ryan’s defense is if they’re constantly set up in poor field position and tired from being left on the field too long. Plus, the Ravens’ offense has a three-headed monster in Joe Flacco, Ray Rice and Anquan Boldin, as well as a solid offensive line to help keep the chains moving. Baltimore has the offensive weapons to move the ball tonight, but the defense has to step up and control the game on their end. If Greene starts to take over and the passing game opens up, then all Sanchez has to do is play game manager and take what the Ravens give him.
The Jets Win If:
They run the ball like they’re accustomed to doing and Sanchez converts on his opportunities in the passing game. The Jets relied on their running game and defense to win ballgames last year and thanks to a lot of luck rolled in, they were able to make it to the AFC title game. While it’s important for Sanchez to make strides as a passer, the Jets shouldn’t get away from what they do best. Establishing the running game will open up the pass and as long as Sanchez is takes care of the ball then the Jets will always have an opportunity to win. It’s when turnovers occur and the defense can’t erase mistakes that this team falls apart.
Prediction:
The Jets are the play here. It’s their opening game in their new stadium and while they just went through a tumultuous offseason with Darrelle Revis, he’s reportedly in great shape and will shutdown Boldin. That said, I do envision a couple of big plays to push the score over the total of 36. Everyone is expecting a low-scoring game because of the defenses, but the Ravens’ secondary is a major question mark entering the season and if the Jets can get their running game going, Sanchez may be able to strike for a big play or two.
2010 NFL Week 1 Free Pick: NEW YORK JETS –1 & OVER 36