Meadowlands Monsoon? Patriots vs. Jets 'Tropical Cyclone' Weather Prediction
FOXBORO — The New England Patriots are attempting to make their first mark in the win column this season when they travel to East Rutherford, NJ for a matchup with their division-rival New York Jets at MetLife Stadium.
However, an ominous weather forecast may have a significant impact on this, and other games on the NFL's weekend slate.
Weather experts predict that a batch of inclement weather known as a "tropical cyclone" is on track to batter the East Coast over the course of this weekend. If the current forecasts hold up, two additional Week 3 matchups may also be impacted: Buffalo Bills at Washington Commanders game, as well as the Indianapolis Colts at Baltimore Ravens — as well as Pats-Jets.
NFL analyst Warren Sharp used social media to detail the latest view on this weekend's predicted weather, which could at its worst mean a delay of the games or even something more drastic.
A tropical cyclone is defined, by the NOAA, as "a warm-core low pressure system, without any front attached, that develops over the tropical or subtropical waters and has an organized circulation. These include hurricanes and typhoons.”
In simpler terms, the storm is expected to produce both high winds and soaking rain — conditions which are almost certain to affect both the passing and kicking for both teams. Lightning is rare in tropical cyclones, making delays less likely, yet still possible.
As a result, both the Jets and Patriots may be forced to heavily utilize their respective running games. Through the first two games of the season, the Jets have rushed 44 times for 236 yards (118.0 yards per game) while the Patriots have averaged 82.0, ranking 27th in the NFL.
Albeit a short commute relative to other road matchups, New England is set to travel to New Jersey on Saturday. It will be worth paying close attention to the forecast in the coming hours for any potential changes. Variations in the storm's track and/or intensity coudl have an impact on both the team's travel plans, as well as fans heading to the stadium for Sunday's 1 p.m. kickoff.
