Coming out of their bye week, the NY Jets will be squaring off with their cross-town rivals, the New York Giants. The Jets enter this game having won their final two games before the bye week, sitting at a 3-3 record. On the flip side of things, the Giants come into this game with a record of 2-5, beating the Washington Commanders this past week.
Despite the poor record, don't let the Giants fool you — they've found some success in recent weeks. The Jets have done a very good job this year of shutting down opposing quarterbacks, and that will need to continue this week if the Jets are to secure a victory.
The NY Jets need their pass rush to step up in Week 8
It's no secret that the Jets have one of the top pass rushes in the NFL. The Jets have the second-lowest blitz percentage in the league at 18.3, but they have the highest quarterback hurry rate at 14.2%. In other words, the Jets don't even have to blitz to get to the quarterback.
The incredible Jets pass rush starts with one of their best players, Bryce Huff. Huff is not only one of the Jets' best defensive players but is also among the best pass rushers in the entire league. Huff ranks among the league leaders in pressures despite his limited snaps.
Guys like Jermaine Johnson, Quinnen Williams, John Franklin-Myers, Quinton Jefferson, and Solomon Thomas will all be key to the Jets' pass rush in Week 8. It starts with the interior rush up front.
Johnson has had himself a decent season as well, playing a major role in the Jets' victory over the previously undefeated Philadelphia Eagles. These six players can make or break the Jets' defense.
Letting a quarterback become comfortable enough to throw in the pocket could be a massive issue for a defense. With Sauce Gardner and D.J. Reed returning, the Jets' defense looks ready to be back in full force, and this should be a massive concern for the Giants' offense.
However, it's important that they don't let this become a trap game. The Jets' pass rush is the biggest key to victory this week.