Miami Dolphins @ New York Jets
Five weeks ago, Miami's (12-1, 2-1 AFC East) Calvin Pryor tweeted that he and his Dolphins teammates intended to celebrate a "funeral" for the 2016 New York Jets (7-6, 2-2) season.
Although Miami handily won the matchup, the Jets were far from done as they have since won four straight and have circled their calendar for revenge on Miami - specifically the brash-talking Pryor.
"Dude tried to bury us and he (isn't) even starting anymore over there," David Johnson said. "Let them do the talking - sure they won last time, but we are going to do everything it takes to defend our home turf Saturday Night."
Pryor had been demoted to rotational play after a stretch of rough play, but is now expected to start back in his familiar safety role.
"You think the way they are talking they won the Super Bowl getting four straight," Pryor said. "You beat the Rams, Colts, and 49ers bro, congratulations."
With their defense stepping up by recording multiple scores during their season-saving win streak, the Jets have been able to overcome shaky play by their rotating quarterbacks.
To avenge their 45-15 loss in Miami, coach Todd Bowles knows he'll need better ball security under center.
"They (quarterbacks) know what's expected," Bowles said. "It's time to put together a complete game."
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: The rookies to become professionals. Jalen Ramsey, Joey Bosa, and Myles Jack have been impressive of last along with inspiring play by their sophomore teammates in Dante Fowler Jr. and Vic Beasley Jr. Expect big games from the speedy and inspired freshman class as the Jets pull off the home victory.
PREDICTION: Jets win 22-20
Cleveland Browns @ Buffalo Bills
The moneyball-inspired re-building Cleveland Browns take their traveling road show to the northeast as they battle the AFC East leading Buffalo Bills (12-1, 3-1 AFC East).
Buffalo has survived a brutal 4-game stretch that saw them squeak out consecutive 1-score victories (all requiring late heroics by MVP candidate Aaron Rodgers).
Although a team should never overlook an NFL opponent, the woeful Cleveland Browns may be just what the doctor ordered before the Bills finish their schedule with vital division games against the Miami Dolphins and New York Jets.
"We are focused on this game and this game only," Rex Ryan said. "Stop trying to distract my guys."
Despite his team's 12-1 start to the season and Super Bowl aspirations, many around the league astoundingly expect Ryan and the team to part ways regardless to how the 2016 season finishes.
"Crap," Ryan said. "What are you guys up to man, you just make this crap up to sell papers. We are 12-1. Are you serious with all this talk?"
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: If the weather is a factor you could potentially see a competitive game at least into the 2nd quarter.
PREDICTION: Bills win 30-14
