MMQB Panel Offers One-Sided Prediction for Jets vs. Eagles

Non-conference clash set for Sunday at 4:25 pm ET in East Rutherford

Author:
Ralph Ventre
Publish date:
Oct 14, 2023 7:04 AM EDT

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The New York Jets have never beaten the Philadelphia Eagles and Sports Illustrated's MMQB staff doesn't foresee that changing this week.

The Jets, who are 0-12 all-time against the NFC club, will host the turnpike rivals on October 15 at MetLife Stadium. The Eagles enter with a 5-0 overall record that will remain intact according to SI's seven-member panel.

Not one SI expert selected the Jets as the expected victor in the weekly game-by-game predictions.

There are multiple trends that support the MMQB unanimous pick, including the fact that Philadelphia is one of only two undefeated teams remaining in the NFL this season.

"These guys are obviously really good, a lot of players all the way around. Obviously, the big guys up front, too," said Jets' field general Zach Wilson on Thursday. "I think I remember playing them my rookie year, and they talk a lot."

While Wilson owns a 9-17 career record as a starter, the Eagles have won 19 of the last 20 games started by quarterback Jalen Hurts. The NFL MVP candidate has posted wins in all of his last 11 road starts.

Both teams will be without key defensive pieces on Sunday in the Meadowlands. Starter D.J. Reed is one of three Jets' cornerbacks who won't be available. While Reed remains in concussion protocol, Brandin Echols and Justin Hardee are sidelined by hamstring injuries.

The Eagles' secondary will be missing two starters as cornerback Darius Slay and safety Justin Evans were both ruled out on Friday. Defensive tackle Jalen Carter is also a no-go.

Reminder, all picks are straight up. On the betting line, the Eagles are a 6.5-point road favorite over the Jets, who are 2-2 "against the spread" this year.

Last week, five of seven MMQB panelists predicted Gang Green to beat the Denver Broncos. Snapping a three-game slide, the Jets won, 31-21.