Washington Commanders vs. New York Jets: Prediction, Odds, Depth Charts (12/24/23)

Both the New York Jets and Washington Commanders are looking ahead to 2024. Their Christmas Eve could bring a shakeup to the draft order. Let’s take a look at Commanders vs. Jets odds and predictions, with Jets moneyline (-162) as our best bet.

Washington Commanders vs. New York Jets Prediction

It’s the worst statistical offense in the league against the worst defense, and picking a winner in that matchup isn’t easy. The Jets’ home/road splits are worth considering, however. Opposing QBs have a 66.1 passer rating at MetLife Stadium and a 100.1 passer rating elsewhere, even with both Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts playing at MetLife. The Jets’ defense has a way of rising up at home, and that could be a difference-maker against a reeling Sam Howell.

Howell was out of sync against the Rams last week, and a Jets defense that could come bearing down on him — sacks have been a problem all year for Howell — could force him into more bad decisions.

The Commanders’ defense is a rare favorable matchup for the Jets. If Zach Wilson is ready to go, he’ll have the benefit of facing one of the league’s softest pass-rush units. The Jets’ horrendous offensive line could use that kind of break. If the unit can hold up for even part of the game, Wilson should at least be able to get something going against Washington’s secondary.

The pick gets trickier if Trevor Siemian is under center. As it stands now, Jets moneyline is worth the look even at -168. Jets -3 might be giving New York a bit too much credit in what could be an ugly game decided by field goals. If Wilson’s status becomes more certain, however, Jets -3 could be worth considering.

Washington Commanders vs. New York Jets prediction: Jets Moneyline (-162)

Washington Commanders vs. New York Jets Best Odds

The Jets enter as 3-point home favorites, sitting -162 on the moneyline. The over/under is 37.5 points.

The Jets are coming off a dismal performance against the Dolphins, but Washington has the NFL’s longest losing streak and appears headed toward a coaching change after struggling on both sides of the ball in recent weeks. Can either passing game show signs of life on Sunday?

Washington Commanders vs. New York Jets Key Injuries

Commanders RB Brian Robinson Jr. has missed the last two games with a hamstring injury and still hasn’t practiced. OT Charles Leno Jr. exited with a calf injury vs. LA, and his status for Week 16 isn’t clear.

For the Jets, the status of QB Zach Wilson (concussion) will be determined later in the week. QB Aaron Rodgers (Achilles) is now not expected to return this season. Both DE John Franklin-Myers and DT Quinton Jefferson exited with a hip injury vs. Miami, and their status for Week 16 isn’t clear.

Washington Commanders vs. New York Jets Key Matchups

Here are some of the key matchups that could decide Commanders vs. Jets.

JNew York ets Offensive Line vs. Washington Commanders Pass-Rush

The Dolphins went into their matchup with the Jets coming off a disappointing pass-rushing performance, but they overpowered New York’s offensive line right away. Can the Commanders do the same? Washington’s defensive front is much less formidable with both Montez Sweat and Chase Young traded, and the unit has managed only three sacks over the last three games. That includes none against both Dak Prescott and Tua Tagovailoa.

That has led to even more defensive issues for the Commanders, but they might be able to make up for it against a Jets offensive line that has had a tough time blocking anyone with a pulse. For New York, this might be the line’s best chance to put together a respectable performance.

Terry McLaurin vs. New York Jets Secondary

When Ron Rivera benched Sam Howell late in the Commanders’ loss to the Rams, the offense caught fire because Jacoby Brissett knew who his best target was. Brissett immediately flashed a connection with Terry McLaurin, who just hasn’t been featured as much as he should be this season. Can Howell learn something from that moment?

Jaylen Waddle was able to burn a tough Jets secondary without Tyreek Hill in the fold last weekend, and McLaurin has the kind of talent that can transform a game if Howell tries to use him early and often on Sunday. So far this season, that connection has been fleeting.

Washington Commanders Depth Chart

QB: Sam Howell
RB1: Brian Robinson Jr.
RB2: Antonio Gibson
LWR: Terry McLaurin
RWR: Jahan Dotson
SWR: Curtis Samuel
TE1: Logan Thomas

New York Jets Depth Chart

QB: Zach Wilson
RB1: Breece Hall
RB2: Dalvin Cook
LWR: Allen Lazard
RWR: Garrett Wilson
SWR: Randall Cobb
TE1: Tyler Conklin