Garrett Wilson vs. Christian Gonzalez.
The New England Patriots and New York Jets will not have individual matchups that would be more meaningful for the final outcome of Sunday’s game at Gillette Stadium.
Wilson will be New York’s leader as the club’s best offensive weapon (Brace Hall has been out since Week 3) already accounts for a third of their receiving production and half of their receiving touchdowns — and rightfully so.
Gonzalez will return to shore up a depleted secondary in New England, with his primary responsibility being the same as ever – stopping the best players on the other side of the football.
It’s funny to call it a battle, but one man is enough to admit that historically it wasn’t a battle at all.
“I wouldn’t even say we really had a battle. Over the years, he’s gotten better at the game for different reasons. He’s a really good player,” Wilson said this week on team-provided film. “Every time I get to play against the top guys in this league, I’m excited for the opportunity. Yeah, he’s a great player. I know him everywhere off the court. Great guy. I think he just signed there long-term, so I’m looking forward to continuing to … compete against each other throughout our careers. He’s a great player, and like I said, as a competitor, I love the opportunity.”
Wilson has 15 catches, 194 yards and one touchdown in three games against Gonzalez — though that doesn’t mean they always match up with each other. If anyone knows if this is a one-sided game, it’s him.
Still, it’s interesting to hear a player admit it. Maybe he has a trick up his sleeve in Game 4…