The Cleveland Browns play host to the New York Jets on Sunday afternoon from FirstEnergy Stadium in an interesting week two matchup. The Jets were defeated soundly in their opener last week, while the Browns turned a few heads, grabbing the win on the road against the Panthers after some heroics at the end of the fourth quarter. The two last met in 2020, with the Jets springing the upset, while it has been a pretty even series over the last decade. Neither team has high expectations to start the season but at least for the Browns, a 2-0 start would be a pleasant suprise.
For the Jets, expectations have been low for years and 2022 isn't much different. Last season saw them lose by 15 points to the Ravens at home and after only winning one game in their final six last season, this locker room is becoming more and more accustomed to being on the wrong end of losses. This weekend's matchup will mark the first away game of the season for the Jets as well and having to go to a potentially hostile environment could prove to be a challenge. Things don't get any easier for the Jets over the next few weeks, including playing the Bengals, the Steelers, and the Dolphins, only adding more pressure on the Jets to get in the win column in this one.
The Jets' injury report is well known and the main absence continues to be Zach Wilson (knee), leaving them without much explosive talent at quarterback. CJ Uzomah (hamstring) is questionable and with some additional potential absences on the offensive line, it could be a long day to try to run the ball and pass protect. On the defensive end, Vinny Curry (hamstring) remains out as well.
Coach Saleh says S Jordan Whitehead will give it a go on Sunday.
TE CJ Uzomah and P Braden Mann will be gameday decisions. pic.twitter.com/wipo42OrIx
— New York Jets (@nyjets) September 16, 2022
The Jets struggled to finish off drives last week and while they moved the ball through the air to the tune of almost 300 yards, the lack of a solid ground game could be problematic. The Browns' defense could pose some more difficulties than what Baltimore did, though New York will want to make sure to take care of the ball either way. Joe Flacco will continue to take the snaps at quarterback and while he might not be as exciting as Wilson, he brings quite a bit of experience, as well as a Super Bowl ring, and should manage the game well. The x-factor continues to be Michael Carter though, as his ability to move the ball through the air and on the ground, could pose problems for Cleveland.
Defensively, the Jets were stout against the run last week and with the Browns relying heavily on moving the ball on the ground, it could be an interesting dynamic. While the Jets kept the Ravens to under 275 yards of total offense, the scoring de fense remains a concern. The Jets won't worry about the ball moving through the air well but yet again, keeping them from grinding out the clock on the ground will be key to keeping this one close. Forcing some turnovers wouldn't hurt and fans should keep an eye on CJ Mosely, who had 11 tackles last week and will be flying to the ball in this one.