The 2011 Monday Night Football game between the Miami Dolphins and New York Jets is scheduled for October 17 (8:30 PM EST) at MetLife Stadium. ESPN will provide TV coverage for this game. This article offers predictions for the intra-division NFL contest between the Dolphins (0-4) and the Jets (2-3).
Both Miami and New York came into this season as playoff contenders. In the case of the New York Jets, the team was picked by a number of people to reach the Super Bowl. Unfortunately, a horrid start has put a big dent in each team’s playoff hopes. The Dolphins are still seeking their first win, while the Jets are fighting to stay relevant. The sense of desperation makes this a rather intriguing contest. Monday night’s game will be the 10th meeting between the two teams in 5 years; the Jets currently hold a 6-4 advantage.
For Miami to have a chance in this game, the team will need an excellent performance from its struggling defense. After a strong season in 2010, the Dolphins’ defense has failed to live up to expectations. The team is dead last in passing defense, giving up more than 300 yards a game. The good news is that New York is not a strong passing team. Still, Miami will have to significantly improve its sack count if it is to avoid another defeat on the road.
For New York to win this game, Mark Sanchez and company will need to play better. Although the Jets have given up 30 or more points in each of their last three losses, both the team’s defense and offense are equally to blame. New York’s offense has simply not done enough to support its defense. The Jets’ running game is currently dead last in the NFL; Sanchez’s eight turnovers have also been costly. Fortunately, the team is up against a side that can’t defend and can’t score.
On paper, the Jets are clearly the better team of the two and should win this contest rather comfortably. However, surprises and upsets have been aplenty this season. Could this be the big October surprise?
My prediction – The Jets will dominate the Dolphins en route to a 30-17 victory; Mark Sanchez will throw at least 2 TDs.
Reference: ESPN.COM