After back-to-back losses to NFC North opponents, the New York Jets (1-2) hope to avoid the same fate against the Detroit Lions (2-1) in Week 4. These two teams have faced off since 2010, a three-point win for the Jets in Detroit. This one's in New Jersey, an early start on Fox.
Lions vs. Jets 2014 live stream: Start time, TV schedule and how to watch online
The Jets try to end their two-game losing streak against NFC North opponents.
Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
As is customary for a Rex Ryan-coached team, the Jets possess a strong defense. While injuries have hindered the defense’s ability to slow down passing games, its stout front three have shut down a number of talented running backs. Ryan’s crew is allowing only 2.8 yards/carry so far, third best in the NFL, and represents the toughest challenge the Lions’ offense has faced thus far in 2014.
Detroit's offense didn't have their best performance a week ago against the Packers, but their defense held the vaunted Green Bay offense to just seven points while producing nine of their own off turnovers. Given the Jets' own issues with ball control, with six turnovers on the season already, the Lions' defense will have the opportunity to put more points on the board this week.
How to watch
Where: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford
When: 1 p.m. ET
TV: FOX
Announcers: Kenny Albert, Daryl Johnston, Tony Siragusa
Online streaming: Verizon NFL Mobile
Odds
The Lions are favored by one point even though they’re on the road, with the over/under at 44.5, according to OddsShark.
Nuts and bolts
The Lions' ground game hasn't taken off as planned, with Reggie Bush and Joique Bell each averaging less than four yards per carry. To make up for the production loss, Matthew Stafford and Calvin Johnson have hooked up for 329 yards on a robust 17.3 yards per completion. Johnson's worst game this year still included 82 yards, and the Jets' secondary remains undermanned.
Meanwhile, the Jets' Chris Ivory is rushing at a 5.7 yards per carry clip. While New York continues to split carries evenly with the ineffective Chris Johnson (3.5 yards per carry), Ivory is expected to absorb more of the work moving forward. If he does and remains productive, it'll open up the necessary opportunities for Geno Smith and the passing game.
Further reading
For more on the Lions, check out Pride of Detroit.
For additional coverage of the Jets, head on over to Gang Green Nation.
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