New York Jets vs. Buffalo Bills Predictions: Insider Picks and Analysis

It's hard to believe it's been almost a week since the New York Jets fired coach Robert Saleh. It seems like forever ago.

But that's how things go in a never-ending NFL news cycle. Now, after six days of rotation, the Jets (2-3) return to the field to host the Buffalo Bills in a Monday night showdown beginning at 8:20 p.m. Eastern on ESPN.

Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich is now interim coach. He will continue to give the defensive signals. The first big decision he made was to relieve offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett of his game-calling duties and appoint passing game coordinator Todd Downing to that role.

How much will the offense change? It's not clear.

The Bills enter the game with a surprising loss to the Houston Texans and an injury list that looks like a grocery list. As of Sunday, only one player was out for the game. But that could only increase between now and kickoff, and the status of wide receiver Khalil Shakir is worth watching.

Here are the game predictions from the Jets Country staff.

New York Jets 26, Buffalo Bills 21

In this league, the first game under an interim coach often has the opportunity to ignite the spark in a young team. The Jets get it done on Monday on a big night from quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

New York Jets 24, Buffalo Bills 21

This pick isn't so much about the changes the Jets make on offense (and I'm skeptical that there will be that many changes, aside from the renewed emphasis on the run). It's about the Jets' defense. They have turned Buffalo quarterback Josh Allen into a turnover machine in their last two meetings at MetLife. He threw five interceptions and the Jets won both games. If Shakir doesn't play, the Jets' secondary could celebrate.

Buffalo Bills 28, New York Jets 17

This season didn't go as planned, but losing Saleh less than a week ago doesn't give me hope that things will get better overnight – at least not this week. The Bills have not lost three straight games since the 2018 season. I expect the Jets offense to look better this week, especially in the running game. Unfortunately, it won't be enough for New York's third win of the season.

Buffalo Bills 27, New York Jets 13

The New York Jets will look very different on the sidelines with Saleh fired. Even if Ulbrich takes over on an interim basis and Downing takes over offensive play from Hackett, the product on the field will look similar. A Bills team that desperately needs a win themselves emerges victorious behind Josh Allen.

New York Jets 24, Buffalo Bills 21

Now it's up to Rodgers that Saleh was a victim of the disappointing start to the year. This offense has room for improvement, and when you're dealing with a banged up Bills defense that can give up yardage, I think it's time for the Jets to start looking the way they look at the beginning of the year should. They cause a surprise at home and take first place in the division.

New York Jets 21, Buffalo Bills 20

With the No. 1 spot on the line and a new head coach for the New York Jets, this seems like a must-win. Saleh's firing may have come as a shock to most, but the timing could help spark a small rush, starting with the matchup against the Buffalo Bills. There is still plenty of talent on the Jets and firing their head coach could be the wake-up call they needed.