For whatever it’s worth, the Jets have been competitive through their 1-2 start.
Amid a 15-year playoff drought, I’d say it counts for something.
The next challenge doesn’t only come in the form of a Chicago Bears team that just carved up the Eagles with their backup quarterback, it’s the litany of injuries the Jets must persevere through.
Their most important absence is 1,000-yard rusher Breece Hall, who was officially ruled out Friday because of a right quadriceps injury.
That gives the backfield to Braelon Allen on Sunday.
The third-year power back has been the Jets’ long-term development project to complement Hall as a pass-catcher.
Jets vs. Bears prediction, prop bet
Allen has 61 yards and a touchdown on his 19 carries this season, but there’s a likelihood he’s in for a larger share of the workload than Hall normally receives.
The Jets are going to need Allen to help them keep pace with the NFL’s No. 1 rushing attack, and at 6-foot-1 and 235 pounds, Allen is built to absorb volume.
Offensive coordinator Frank Reich entered the season emphasizing a vigorous rushing attack behind an offensive line the Jets believe can be a strength.
The Bears and Jets have controlled possession better than the rest of the NFL, averaging 34:32 and 34:08, respectively. That sets up a matchup where sustained drives and the running game will be supreme.
And he has a favorable opportunity to make an impression as a trusted three-down weapon: Chicago has allowed an opposing running back to either reach 100 rushing yards or score a touchdown in two of its first three games.
Betting on the NFL?
Allen received 10 carries in the season opener against Tennessee, turning them into 40 yards while also having a 23-yard touchdown wiped out by a penalty.
The Jets have been efficient when drives reach scoring territory, converting 66.7 percent of their red-zone trips into touchdowns.
THE PLAY: Same Game Parlay: Braelon Allen Over 13.5 Rush Attempts + Anytime Touchdown (+212, DraftKings)
Why Trust New York Post Betting
Sean Treppedi handicaps the NFL, NHL, MLB and college football for the New York Post. He primarily focuses on picks that reflect market value while tracking trends to mitigate risk.
