MMQB Prediction Panel Backing Bolts over Jets in Monday Night Football Matchup

Only one dissenter from the seven-person lineup predicts the Green & White will win in Week 9

Author:
Ralph Ventre
Publish date:
Nov 6, 2023 6:39 AM EST

In this story:

The New York Jets are the team riding the three-game win streak, but they received little respect from The MMQB prediction panel ahead of their Monday Night Football matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers.

Instead of siding with the hot home team, six of seven SI panelists selected the Chargers (3-4) to defeat the Jets (4-3) on November 6 at MetLife Stadium.

The visiting Bolts are a slight favorite, ranging from 3.0-3.5 points, over the Jets on the betting line and Matthew Verderame is the lone prognosticator to project an "upset" on Monday night. Reminder, all MMQB picks are straight up.

The MNF matchup is one of strength vs. strength and weakness vs. weakness. The Jets' highly-ranked defense will look to contain Justin Herbert and the Chargers' dangerous attack.

"We got to be ready for whatever they bring pressure wise, coverage wise. They do a lot of great things on defense," said Herbert.

New York ranks fourth overall amongst NFL team leaders in yards per play allowed (4.78) while the Los Angeles offense accounts for the league's eight-highest yards per play average (5.58).

When it comes to the Jets' offense against the Chargers' defense, both units reside in the basement. The Green & White account for 273.3 yards per game (31st) while the Bolts allow 390.9 yards per outing (31st).

A victory over a conference opponent would provide a boost to the Jets' postseason pursuit approaching the midway point in the regular season schedule.

"It does because it is in conference, but the reality of it is that they all matter," said Jets' head coach Robert Saleh on Friday. "Sure you could look at all that, but we just have to take care of the moment."

Gang Green has taken care of the moment in a couple of tough spots already this season at home. The Jets defeated the reigning three-time AFC East champion Buffalo Bills on Monday Night Football in the opener. In Week 6, Saleh's squad dealt the Super Bowl LVII runner-up Philadelphia Eagles their first loss of the season.