Robby Anderson could be in for a huge year in 2018.
Who: NY Jets (5-8) @ New Orleans Saints (9-4)
When: Sunday at 1 pm
Where: Mercedes-Benz Superdome
Point Spread: Jets +16.5
For a team with nothing to play for facing a team that’s flying high and heading to the playoffs, Sunday’s game between the Jets and Saints has no shortage of drama, suspense and at least one marquee match-up. Here’s a list of some of those and little bit extra.
WR Robby Anderson vs CB Marshon Lattimore:
Lattimore is a serious contender for defensive rookie of the year and Anderson is making a push to make the Pro-Bowl in his second year undrafted free agent out of Temple. Anderson’s blazing speed against the impressive Lattimore is easily the best match-up of the day.
LT Kelvin Beachum vs DE Cameron Jordan:
The Jets are starting Bryce Petty for just the fifth time in his short career. The Saints will look to rattle him and they could be able to do so without sending extra pressure if Jordan, who has posted double-digit sacks in 3 of the past 5 seasons can win his battle against Beachum.
OC John Morton vs Saints Defense:
The seemingly obvious match-up to highlight would be Petty vs the Saints, but with such an inexperienced quarterback, it’s up to John Morton to design a game plan that plays to Petty’s strengths by keeping him on the move and rolling out. This game figures to be a blowout. If it transpires that way, will Petty spend the second half handing it off, or will Morton let him air it out?
Darron Lee and Demario Davis vs Melvin Ingram and Alvin Kamara:
The NFL’s top rushing duo takes on a potential pro bowl linebacker (Davis) and a much improved second-year player (Lee) in a game that’s sure to feature plenty of opportunities of the Saints are up by as much as Vegas is predicting and Drew Brees and company take their collective foot off the gas. If Davis and Lee struggle, it’s going to be a long day for the Jets defense.
DT Steve McClendon vs C Max Unger:
If the Jets stand any chance at all of staying competitive, they’re going to have to pressure Saints quarterback Drew Brees. If they’re going to have any success there, it could come from right up the middle where the always underrated Steve McClendon can win his battles up front against Unger. With fellow defensive lineman Mo Wilkerson deactivated, there’s that much more pressure on McClendon and company.