Raiders RB Ashton Jeanty tests Jets defense with pre-game jabs

Las Vegas Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty cast doubt on New York Jets defenders before their Sunday matchup at MetLife Stadium. Jeanty claimed certain Jets players "don't really want to tackle" him. The remark lands as New York prepares to host a Las Vegas squad that ranks 24th against the run, allowing 127.7 yards per game.

The Jets' defensive line faces a thin roster for this contest. T’Vondre Sweat, the team's primary run stopper, sits out with a knee injury. Edge rusher David Bailey is also questionable due to a groin issue. These absences leave the front seven vulnerable against a rushing attack that has already exploited similar gaps.

New York's struggle against the ground game was evident in last week's loss to Miami. The Dolphins rushed for 156 yards, including a final drive that decided the game. Jets wide receiver Garrett Wilson also posted a quiet performance, securing only two catches on three targets for 26 yards. Wilson has recorded just six total receptions across his last two outings.

Sports+ contributor Brian Costello analyzed the balance of power for the Week 8 game. He noted that while New York possesses greater talent, its current form is hard to trust. Costello predicted that Las Vegas quarterback Kirk Cousins and tight end Brock Bowers would dismantle the Jets' secondary.

Costello called the contest a close game that would decide itself in the fourth quarter. He projected a final score of 28 to 24 in favor of the Raiders. The two teams will meet on Sunday at MetLife Stadium for the Week 8 matchup.

The Raiders enter this game with a rushing attack that has found success against struggling defenses. Jeanty averages 3.1 yards per carry and has one rushing touchdown this season. The Jets must stop the run to keep the game within reach, a task that has eluded them in recent weeks.