The New York Jets are on the road for their third game of the 2026 season, desperate to get back in the win column after a heartbreaking collapse against the Green Bay Packers last week. This matchup against the Detroit Lions is a tough one, especially when you consider the last time these two teams met, the Jets lost a close 20-17 battle. While the Jets have won four of the last six games against the Lions, this Sunday looks like it’s going to be a rough ride.
The Run Defense Is Rock Solid, But The Passing Game Is a Nightmare
Listen, the Jets’ revamped run defense has been seriously impressive early on. They held the Tennessee Titans under 70 yards rushing in the season opener, and then followed that up by stifling the Green Bay Packers for less than 65 yards last week. This trend is set to continue, with the formidable Jahmyr Gibbs projected to be held under 70 rushing yards. That’s good stuff! But here’s the kicker: that success against the run isn’t going to translate to the passing game. The Jets’ pass defense, which has done a nice job the last two weeks, is about to hit a brick wall. They simply don’t have the defensive backs who can stick with Amon Ra St. Brown, Jameison Williams, and Sam LaPorta. Plus, Goff is deadly indoors, and he’s expected to throw for over 275 yards and at least two touchdowns. That’s a huge problem.
Geno Smith’s Mistake-Free Run Ends, and Detroit’s Potent Offense Explodes
Geno Smith has been playing mistake-free football the last couple of weeks, but the Lions’ high-flying offense is going to force him into a different game. He’ll have to be more aggressive to keep up, and the results won’t be what the Jets need. Smith is predicted to turn the ball over twice, meaning the Jets will lose the turnover battle for the first time this season. On a brighter note, Garrett Wilson is due for a breakout, with projections for his first 100+ yard game of the season. Still, it won’t be enough. The Jets might keep it reasonably close, but they won’t be able to hang with Detroit’s potent offense. The Lions have already put up 30+ points in their first two games (a tight 31-30 win over the Saints and a 41-31 loss to the Bills), and they’re projected to hit 30+ again this week. Expect the Jets to fall to the Lions, 30-24.
This Sunday’s game is pivotal for the Jets to avoid falling further behind after their heartbreaking collapse. They’re up against a Lions offense that is firing on all cylinders, and a defense that could exploit some real weaknesses. We’ll be watching to see if the Jets can defy these predictions or if they’ll sink further into the early-season mire.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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