Jets Return to Underdog Role for Monday Night Football Matchup
It was fun while it lasted.
The New York Jets were betting favorites for the first time all season last week, but Robert Saleh's crew has returned to its familiar underdog status ahead of the November 6 matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers on Monday Night Football.
The Chargers (3-4) have opened as a 3.0-point road favorite in the meeting with the Jets (4-3) at MetLife Stadium.
Los Angeles enters off a Week 8 blowout win over the Chicago Bears while the Green & White eked out a 13-10 overtime victory over the New York Giants. The Jets were 3.0-point favorites last week, but some bettors may have been fortunate enough to book them at -2.5 points.
The Jets have fared well "against the spread" as an underdog this season, going 4-2 with three outright victories.
Despite being the seventh opponent to open as the betting line favorite against the Jets this season, the Chargers have noticeable vulnerabilities that begin with their defensive ineffectiveness. The Bolts rank 31st out of 32 teams in total defense, allowing 390.9 yards per outing. The good news for the visitors, however, is that the Jets' offense averages only 273.3 yards per game (29th in NFL).
In addition to limited production, the Jets currently face uncertainty on the offensive line. Gang Green finished out the win over the Giants with Practice Squad elevation Xavier Newman playing center and backup tackle Billy Turner filling in at right guard for an injury-ravaged front five. Second-round rookie Joe Tippmann, who doubles as the starting right guard and second-string center, is nursing a quad injury but could provide some relief by returning in time for Monday night.
The Jets' defense should be able to match up well against Justin Herbert and the Bolts' attack, which averages 5.88 yards per play (eighth in NFL). Gang Green, which limits opponents to 4.78 yards per snap (fourth in NFL), notably contained quarterbacks Josh Allen, Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts to the tune of a combined 3:8 touchdown-to-interception ratio.
For those bettors looking for action on the money line, the Chargers carry -161 odds while Jets' bettors are offered a +135 potential payout. The opening point total (over/under) is 41.0. Numbers are provided by SI Sportsbook.
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