For what it’s worth, the Jets are competitive in their 1-2 start.
In a 15-year playoff drought, I’d say that’s a big deal.
Not only does the next challenge come from the Chicago Bears, who just carved up the Eagles with their backup quarterback, but the Jets also have to overcome a litany of injuries.
Their most significant absence is 1,000-yard rusher Breece Hall, who was officially ruled out on Friday with a right quadriceps injury.
That leaves the backcourt on Sunday in the hands of Braylon Allen.
The third-year power back is a long-term development project for the Jets to complement Hall’s abilities as a pass catcher.
Jets vs. Bears predictions, prop betting
Allen has 19 carries for 61 yards and a touchdown this season, but he may be taking on more of a workload than Hall typically handles.
The Jets need Allen to help them keep pace with the NFL’s No. 1 rushing attack, and the 6-foot-1, 235-pound Allen has a natural ability to absorb bulk.
Offensive coordinator Frank Reich emphasized at the start of the season that the Jets believed having a strong rushing attack behind the offensive line could be a strength.
The Bears and Jets run the ball better than the rest of the NFL, averaging 34:32 and 34:08 respectively. This sets up a matchup where the consistent drive and run game will be supreme.
He has a favorable opportunity to impress as a reliable third-down weapon: Chicago has allowed opposing running backs to rush for 100 yards or a touchdown in two of its first three games.
Betting on the NFL?
Allen rushed 10 times for 40 yards in the season opener against Tennessee and had a 23-yard touchdown that was negated by penalties.
The Jets were very efficient when driving into the scoring zone, converting 66.7 percent of their red zone trips into touchdowns.
Play: Streak: Braelon Allen over 13.5 rushing attempts + any touchdown (+212, DraftKings)
Why Trust New York Post Betting
Sean Treppedi covers the NFL, NHL, MLB and college football for the New York Post. He focuses primarily on selections that reflect market value while tracking trends to reduce risk.