The New York Jets will defend their home turf tonight against a team that also calls MetLife Stadium its own. Yes, the Giants, who for whatever reason (i.e. Tim Tebow, Rex Ryan) attract less attention than their city rival, will but heads with Gang Green this evening in a nationally televised NFL Network battle (7:00pm ET start time). NFL Preseason New York Giants at New York Jets Odds have the Jets listed as a -1 against the spread favorite; tonight’s game total is set at 36.5 points.
The focus of the Jets preseason opener against the Bengals seemed to center on the offense and quarterbacks Mark Sanchez and Tim Tebow. Based upon the result of that game New York may need to give its offense even more attention. The Jets produced 11 first downs and 173 total yards in losing 17-6 to Cincinnati and both Sanchez and Tebow turned in less than commendable performances in the setback.
Sanchez exited the game having completed 4-of-6 passes for 21 yards and Tebow was even less impressive directing the second team, finishing the night with 27 pass yards (4-of-8) and one interception. Tebow did, however, rush for 34 yards on four carries.
Head Coach Rex Ryan has indicated New York’s starters will get more time tonight, possibly playing the entire first half. That means Sanchez will get a chance to make amends for last week’s effort, but he will do so with a banged up receiving corps. Neither Santonio Holmes nor Jeremy Kerley is scheduled to suit up for tonight’s game.
The Giants also fell in their exhibition opener, losing 31-32 to Jacksonville at EverBank Field last Friday. New York went into the break with a 24-14 lead, but turnovers, poor run defense (Jaguars produced 156 yards on 31 carries), and 11 penalties effectively eliminated the 10 point cushion.
One bright spot for the Giants in the ugly loss was the performance of rookie running back David Wilson. Wilson shined in his NFL debut, rushing seven times for 43 yards. Six year veteran D.J. Ware also had a nice night on the ground as he racked up 30 yards and one touchdown in five touches.
Free Pick: The Jets, although lacking in offensive weapons, seem to be putting more emphasis on this evening’s game than the Giants. The Jets also figure to hammer the Giants second stringers with Tim Tebow’s legs after the break. Say what you want about Tebow’s arm or lack thereof, but the guy can run the ball and he should have no problem doing so against Big Blue’s backups. Take the Jets -1.
NFL Preseason New York Giants at New York Jets Odds:
New York Giants +1 (-110), Over 36.5 (-110)
New York Jets -1 (-110), Under 36.5 (-110)
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