Jets Win Split Decision from Prediction Panel in Week 16

New York closes out home slate vs. Washington in matchup of eliminated teams

While the New York Jets have lost six of their last seven games, the Washington Commanders are riding a five-game losing streak into MetLife Stadium on December 24.

When the Jets' bottom-ranked offense goes up against the Commanders' 32nd-ranked defense, something has got to give although the game could theoretically end in a tie.

Sports Illustrated's prediction panel, which picks every game, every week, was split on how this one will unfold. The Jets (5-9) won a razor-thin majority decision over the Commanders (4-10) with four panelists siding with Gang Green. Three defectors — Claire Kuwana, John Pluym and Matthew Verderame — backed the road team on the Week 16 non-conference matchup that will kick off at 1:00 pm ET on Sunday.

It'll be the Jets' fourth, and final, game against NFC East teams this season. After a Week 2 loss to the Dallas Cowboys, the Jets have outlasted the New York Giants and Philadelphia Eagles in East Rutherford.

Veteran Trevor Siemian will become the fourth different player to start at quarterback for the 2023 Jets as Zach Wilson remains in concussion protocol. Siemian will direct an offense that has managed only 13 touchdowns through 14 games.

"We have to look at all the different things Trevor’s comfortable with that we can get going this week," said Jets' offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett on Thursday. "He goes out there, it’s not too big for him. He prepares really well. I think for the situation, for the lack of practice, he’s done a pretty good job of running the huddle."

The Commanders will counter by starting second-year field general Sam Howell, who ranks ninth amongst NFL passing leaders with 3,568 yards through the air. Washington's attack will be without lead ball carrier Brian Robinson due to a hamstring injury.

"You have a young quarterback who I feel like is really starting to figure it out," said Jets' defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich about facing the Commanders. "Obviously, he had some struggles early on, as all young quarterbacks do, but he’s had some moments too where he looks like a guy."

As always, all SI weekly selections are straight up. On the betting line, the Jets are a 2.5-point road favorite over the Commanders. Money line bettors must lay -154 odds to back New York while Washington offers a +130 potential payout. The expected point total (over/under) stands at 36.5. All odds are provided by SI Sportsbook.

Jets' Offensive Line Performance Likely Determining Factor vs. Commanders

MMQB Predictions (Jets vs. Commanders)

Albert Breer, senior NFL reporter
Pick: Jets

Conor Orr, senior writer
Pick: Jets

Gilberto Manzano, staff writer
Pick: Jets

Matt Verderame, staff writer
Pick: Commanders

John Pluym, managing editor
Pick: Commanders

Mitch Goldich, editor
Pick: Jets

Claire Kuwana, editor
Pick: Commanders

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