In the world of sports betting, the New York Jets are emerging as a surprise contender. According to a recent tweet by John Ewing, 14% of the money, the highest proportion, is on the Jets to win the AFC. That’s right, more than Patrick Mahomes and the Kanas City Chiefs or Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills.
This has led to the Jets becoming the biggest liability at BetMGM. But is this team actually deserving of your a bet with your cold, hard cash behind it? Let’s take a look!
Why The Hype In New York?
The Jets, who finished last season with a less-than-stellar offensive performance, ranking 29th in scoring and 25th in total offense, have made significant changes in their team structure.
14% of money (most) is on @nyjets +900 to win the AFC.
Jets are biggest liability to win the AFC at @BetMGM. pic.twitter.com/qcTONLQdAL
— John Ewing (@johnewing) June 20, 2023
The most notable of these changes is the arrival of Aaron Rodgers (perhaps you’ve heard of the guy?), who is joining a new team for the first time in his 17 NFL seasons.
Rodgers’ arrival has been accompanied by the appointment of Nathaniel Hackett as the new offensive coordinator, a move that is expected to boost the team’s offensive performance given Rodgers’ successful history with Hackett’s system.
Strategy Reigns Supreme
But the Jets’ strategic moves go beyond Rodgers and Hackett. The team has attempted to make Rodgers’ transition seamless by adding proven firepower to their roster.
This includes the free-agent additions of Allen Lazard and Randall Cobb, reliable receivers familiar with both Rodgers and Hackett, and Mecole Hardman, a two-time Super Bowl champion with elite speed.
These additions complement the existing talent, including reigning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Garrett Wilson and promising running back Breece Hall.
Strong Supporting Cast
In addition to bolstering their offensive line-up, the Jets have also focused on reinforcing their offensive line, a critical factor in protecting Rodgers.
They signed former Packer Billy Turner and drafted top center prospect Joe Tippmann, while the addition of versatile veteran Wes Schweitzer provides valuable insurance.
.@RealTannenbaum doesn't think Aaron Rodgers makes the Jets immediate Super Bowl contenders 👀 pic.twitter.com/loUdjXB6de
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) June 21, 2023
These strategic moves seem to echo the approach taken by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2020 when they surrounded Tom Brady with enough talent to win the Super Bowl.
The Jets, with their revamped team and the 4th best defense in the NFL from last season, are clearly aiming high.
Looking Ahead To 2023-2024
However, the road to victory is not without its challenges. The Jets have the 6th hardest schedule this season, which means they will have to face some of the toughest teams in the league.
The Jets have the fourth-best odds to win the AFC at +900. The Chiefs (+350), Bills (+400), and Bengals (+500) are the only teams ahead of them in this category. Those odds are from BetMGM Sportsbook.
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