Match-up 101: Determining the Raiders and Jets Winner

Speaking of defensive backfields, the depth of the Jet’s secondary has been well documented.  The Jets are haunted by a similar cornerback scenario that has left a bad taste in the mouths of The Only Nation. After being drafted 6th overall in 2013, Dee Milliner joins DJ Hayden on the prospective “bust list” in 2014.  Rex Ryan has had good things to say about rookie safety Calvin Pryor, but he suffered a concussion early and has lacked an opportunity to showcase his first round ability.  Even though Antonio Allen has received the starting nod  to begin the season, I expect Pryor to see significant playing time against an unproven Raider offense.  His lack of experience will benefit Oakland while his physicality (in the NFL) should concern Jet’s fans.

On the contrary, the Raiders receivers don’t possess the ability to boast NFL experience either.  This matchup will be a critical determining factor in the game.  Although the Jets recently signed Philip Adams (former Raider), they’ve named Darrin Walls and Kyle Wilson their starters to begin their 2014 campaign.  Both veterans have NFL experience, but they’ve combined for 18 pass deflections and 4 interceptions over the last 3 seasons.  (.08 INT’s and .37 PD’s a game). Adams will be looking for revenge after Derek Carr torched him in the last game of the preseason.

Realistically, the Jets should lick their chops at the opportunity to face a rookie QB to start the season; but Derek Carr should be looking forward to facing a below average pass defense to begin his career. By far, this is the Jet’s obvious weakness heading into 2104, but if they perform well, the Raiders could struggle indefinitely.