The New York Jets will receive a big test on Monday night as the team prepares to play the Indianapolis Colts on ESPN. The team looked strong against the Cleveland Browns, but the Colts prove to be a bigger opponent as the defense must deal with Andrew Luck and the offense cannot afford a setback. That is where injuries come into play as the Jets are hopeful their starting running back will be healthy come kickoff.
The Jets are suddenly benefitting from a run game in 2015 which has been absence in years past. Chris Ivory is emerging as a real star, but injuries could keep him out of Week 2. According to Rich Cimini of ESPN, head coach Todd Bowles is confident Ivory plays after suffering a groin injury in practice. While Ivory is on the bubble, the Jets are hopeful their leading rusher can play and make a quick difference as he gains momentum after a solid Week 1 showing. After putting up almost 100 yards in Week 1, the Jets are expecting more of the same against the Colts.
"The only thing that surprised me about Ivory was how quick his feet were," Bowles said, via the New York Daily News. "He's got excellent feet. ... You don't have to be a blazer as a runner, but if you got good feet and good vision, then you can be a good back."
According to Cimini, the Jets are planning to run the ball first against the Colts. Indianapolis struggled against the Buffalo Bills' run game with LeSean McCoy and New York could have similar success. Alongside Ivory, Bilal Powell will get time on the field as both rushers could put forth a solid game in Week 2.
The Jets are expecting Antonio Cromartie to be inactive following his knee injury, but other than that everyone should be on the field as Ryan Fitzpatrick looks to have another strong performance in Week 2. The quarterback did exactly what was needed against the Browns. He certainly did not look flashy during the game, but he worked well with Brandon Marshall and Eric Decker to get the win. The jets are hopeful that Devin Smith returns to the field. According to Ohm Youngmusik of ESPN, the rookie wide receiver is nearing his debut on the field which could push Jeremy Kerley farther down the depth chart.
