The Jets just keep hanging around. Almost mathematically eliminated from everything – including the potential of a winning season – after 11 games, Gang Green somehow managed to whip the Chiefs 38-31 last week. Another seemingly insurmountable challenge looms in the form of a trip to New Orleans.
But first, the sagging Denver Broncos must welcome the Jets to Mile High. And that’s good news for Todd Bowles and the rebuilding visitors. Denver is hapless on offense, with one of the worst QB situations in the NFL. Trevor Siemien might be playing his way out of the league after throwing 3 picks in last week’s 35-9 loss to Miami.
When you’ve been written off, though, it’s hard to be written back on. Despite the Broncos having nothing to play for and an uphill battle to even score 1 or 2 touchdowns, the point spread opened as a pick’em thanks to a lack of trust in the Jets…and bettors aren’t leaning as hard in New York’s direction as you might imagine.
Who: New York Jets at Denver Broncos
When: Sunday, December 10th, 4:05 PM EST
Where: Sports Authority Field at Mile High
Lines: Pick’em / O/U Total: (41.5)
The Broncos hit rock bottom last week, when a demoralizing rivalry-loss to the Raiders was followed by a total collapse against the so-so Miami Dolphins. That’s 8 (gulp) losses in a row for Denver.
Are there signs of life? The Orange Crush looked OK in a 29-19 loss to KC back in late October, rushing for almost 6 yards per carry as the defense held the powerful Chiefs to just over 250 yards.
Denver still has an above-average ‘D, remnant of the Super Bowl championship team of ’15. Von Miller has 9 sacks and 43 solo tackles. But the team has less sacks than its opponents, partially a result of visiting teams being ahead and handing the ball off. The defense is dying on account of points-off-turnovers, and Von Miller doesn’t play quarterback so there is little that the superstar can do.
The Jets have a hard-nosed defense of their own, but will they eek out enough points to win? Bettors may want to consider the John McCown syndrome, where a solid veteran QB becomes a punch-line thanks to playing for losing teams and being traded a few times.
According to New York fans and a few pundits, McCown is the worst signal-caller to ever play for The Shield. In reality, the old pro has 18 touchdowns and 8 picks in 2017, and nearly passed for 400 yards in the win over KC.
We’re liking McCown to shine again in spite of his critics, and the Jets to prevail on the pick’em or even a (+1) or (+2) spread in Denver. Take the visitors ATS for the winner.