NFL Preseason Week 4 Predictions: New York Jets vs. Philadelphia Eagles

New York Jets vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Thursday, 8/28/14, 7:00 PM EST
Opening Point Spread: Philadelphia -2
Current Betting Line: Philadelphia -2.5
Opening Total: 44
Current Total: 44
Odds Courtesy of Bookmaker

Michael Vick will get the start for the New York Jets in their 2014 preseason finale

New York suffered its first loss in the 2014 preseason last time out, as it dropped a 35-24 decision to the New York Giants as 1.5-point home favorites last week, while going OVER the betting total for a second consecutive affair. Jets quarterback Geno Smith delivered his finest performance of the preseason, which is important to consider when making your NFL predictions Thursday night, as backup Michael Vick will be running the offense from the get go in this affair.

The Jets pass rush continues to get after opposing quarterbacks, which is essential for the team’s success due to numerous question marks in the secondary, as numerous players from that beleaguered unit are banged up. Offensively, New York has been happy with the production its getting from former Tennessee Titans star running back Chris Johnson, who finished with 42 yards on nine carries last time out. It’s not terribly significant that the Jets lead this summer series, 22-12, and that they’ve won five of the last six at Lincoln Financial Field.

Philadelphia has scored 28 or more points in all three preseason games, but it finally came away with its first victory last time out—earning a 31-21 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers as 3.5-point home favorites. Eagles backup quarterback Mark Sanchez will be excited to face his former team in this matchup, especially since he’s completed 25 of 31 passes for 281 yards and two touchdowns with an interception during exhibition play. It’s possible that the former USC Trojans star could be acquired via a trade before the regular season, with St. Louis being a potential suitor due to Sam Bradford being lost for the year.

The Eagles defense allowed 76 points in the first two preseason games, but that group played much better versus the Steelers—keeping them off the scoreboard in the first half with the starters on the field. Philadelphia quarterback Nick Foles looked sharp in his final tuneup before the regular season, while the team received a couple injury scares surrounding running back LeSean McCoy and wide receiver Jeremy Maclin, but both are in position to be on the field next month.