The Patriots travel to the Meadowlands today to battle the surprising New York Jets. Many thought the Jets would struggle this season thanks to several key veterans departing but the Jets have exceeded expectations. 

These two teams have played a lot of close games the last five years. In fact, the Patriots have only beaten the Jets by a touchdown or more only two times during that span.

Here are my five keys to the game.

1. Pass Protection: Tom Brady has a sprained AC Joint in his non throwing shoulder. Brady has taken a beating thus far. The Patriots have to do a better job of protecting him this week against a Jets front seven that is one of the best in the NFL. Look for more 6 and even 7 man protections. 

2. Offensive Tempo: The Patriots need to play with more tempo. Pace is important in games like this. It would not hurt to go no huddle early on to try to get the offense going. 

3. Get Consistent Pressure on McCown: Getting base pressure has been a problem for the Patriots this season. It seems like we talk about this every week. Well, it will be a factor in this game again. They must get pressure McCown consistently or he will make them pay down the field. 

4. Butler on Kearse: With Stephon Gilmore out, look for the Patriots to match up Malcolm Butler a lot in this game. Make a mediocre running game and Robbie Anderson beat you. 

5. Turnovers: The Patriots need to do a better job of protecting the football. If they turn the ball over in this game, they will have their hands full against a mediocre Jets team. Ball security is important every week but it is even more important against bad teams. Don’t give them hope. 

Final Thoughts: The Jets have played the Patriots tough through the years, especially in New York. Expect more of the same in this one. The Patriots will win this game but it will be tight.