NFL: Los Angeles Chargers bring sixth-best passing offense to matchup against New York Jets' strong defense

NEW DELHI: The New York Jets' defense, which has been dominant during a recent three-game winning streak, is set to face the Los Angeles Chargers in a Monday night showcase game in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

The Jets' pass defense ranks fifth-best in the NFL, allowing just 184.4 yards per game and holding opponents to an average of 15.0 points per game during their recent winning streak, which included victories over the Denver Broncos, Philadelphia Eagles, and New York Giants.

In contrast, the Chargers have the sixth-best passing offense in the league, averaging 258.9 passing yards per game under the leadership of quarterback Justin Herbert.

The Jets' defense boasts strong players like All-Pro tackle Quinnen Williams, who has helped create opportunities for his teammates. Defensive tackle Quinton Jefferson has excelled with 3.5 sacks and seven quarterback hits. Defensive ends John Franklin-Myers and Jermaine Johnson II, along with linebacker Bryce Huff, have also contributed to the pass rush.

The Jets' cornerback duo of Sauce Gardner and D.J. Reed has been effective in limiting opposing wide receivers, and linebacker Quincy Williams, the brother of Quinnen, was named AFC Defensive Player of the Month for October, sharing the team lead in tackles with C.J. Mosley at 71 each.

On the offensive side, the Jets have struggled, ranking next to last in passing offense with just 164.3 yards per game. The team's offensive line is dealing with injuries, but there is hope with several players returning to practice. However, center Connor McGovern and lineman Wes Schweitzer are injured and placed on injured reserve, leaving head coach Robert Saleh with decisions to make regarding the offensive line.

The Chargers have dealt with their own center issues with All-Pro Corey Linsley sidelined. Quarterback Justin Herbert was sacked five times in a loss to the Kansas City Chiefs two weeks ago but was not sacked for the first time all season against the Chicago Bears.

The Chargers' passing game has been productive, but their rushing attack has been less successful, ranking in the bottom third of the league with just 103.6 yards per game. Running back Austin Ekeler has struggled with a career-low 3.7 yards per rush and has only one rushing touchdown in four games. However, his abilities in the passing game could be crucial, with wide receiver Mike Williams out for the season and other pass-catchers dealing with injuries.

The Chargers have scored at least 17 points in every game this season, while the Jets have been held to 13 points or fewer in three games. Both teams are looking to continue their progress in this Monday night matchup.

"We've just got to put one foot in front of the other," Chargers coach Brandon Staley said. "We've just got to go one day at a time here. That's what we did last week and that's what, I think, led to us being fresh and focused. We weren't looking too far out in the future."

(With Reuters inputs)