Images courtesy of the New York Jets and New England Patriots
The Patriots take on the rival New York Jets on Thursday Night Football at Gillette Stadium. The Patriots have won seven games in a row and are arguably the hottest team in the NFL.
After looking like they could possibly go winless, the Jets themselves come in on a winning streak, winners of two straight.
The game features some intriguing matchups. Here are the five we will be watching tonight.
Armand Membou vs. Harold Landry: Landry has struggled the past month to get to the quarterback after a torrid to the season. He has an opportunity to get back on track tonight against the Jets rookie right tackle. Membou is long and athletic but he has struggled at times this season.
Mason Taylor vs. Craig Woodson: Taylor has emerged as a go to guy for quarterback Justin Fields, especially with the injury to wide receiver Garrett Wilson who is out for this game. Woodson will be matched up on Taylor a lot in this game and you can expect the two to go after each other pretty good in contested catch situations.
Breece Hall vs. Patriots Front Seven: Stopping Hall is the key in this game. He could potentially get 30 carries as the Jets primary weapon. Hall is a powerful runner who has the ability to break tackles and separate in the open field. Run fits and proper pursuit angles will be key for the Patriots tonight.
Ola Fashanu vs. K’Lavon Chaisson: Chaisson has been a stalwart for the Patriots at the left defensive end but he will have his hands full tonight against the talented Fashanu who is athletic and can match with speed rushers. The one advantage Chaisson could have is his length. Fashanu has shorter arms and that could allow Chaisson to bull rush him and get into his secondary moves.
Azareye’h Thomas vs. Stefon Diggs: The rookie corner is long and athletic and could be an interesting match up for Diggs. He could give Diggs some problems physically but Diggs could also take him to school with his route running and releases at the line of scrimmage. This one match up the Patriots could take advantage early and often.