The Patriots host the Jets in what could be Bill Belichick’s final game as head coach of the Patriots.

The weather will be a factor as it is expected to snow during the game. That means longer cleats and pounding the football offensively.

Defensively, it is all about gap control and winning the line of scrimmage. Jets running back Breece Hall present a stiff challenge as the Jets are expected to lean on their running game as well. 

Here are three things the Patriots can do to attack the Jets offensively and defensively.

Offense

1. Ground and pound: Today is all about the running as both teams will look to pound the ball. The emphasis should be on running off-tackle with Zeke Elliott and Kevin Harris. The Jets are stout inside so attack their edge rushers and force them to have to play physical and play the run.

2. Simple passes: If footing is an issue, the Patriots will need to keep it simple in the passing game. Out cuts, crossers and three-step routes are all effective in weather like we will see in this game. Timing routes like curls, comebacks, whip routes and double moves could be tough to execute today.

3. Stay off the Sauce: The Patriots have to set up their formations and pass plays to attack the other members of the Jets secondary. I would stay away from second year corner Sauce Gardner in the passing game. You can run to his side but the Patriots do not have a receiver that can win one on one against him.

Defense

1. Eight man fronts on early downs: Hall will be the focal point of the Jets game plan today. The Patriots need to get into more eight man fronts on first down and force the Jets into second and third and long situations. If they do that, they will put the game in Trevor Siemian’s hands which is what they want.

2. Combination coverages: The Patriots need to disguise in this game. Play more combination coverages. Play zone to Garrett Wilson’s side and man up everywhere else. The Patriots can do that with their current group of defensive backs. They can also bring overload pressure from the man side.

3. Light Em Up! When the Jets do end up in passing downs, I would come after Siemian. Turnovers will be key in this game. The Patriots must bring pressure on a consistent basis and try to generate as many turnovers as they can today.