On The Beat: 5 questions with New York writer Matt Stypulkoski - Will Sunday mark Todd Bowles' coaching swan song with Jets?

Every week, we go deep on the Patriots’ next opponent with our “5 questions…” feature where we check in with a writer who covers New England’s next opponent. For this week’s game against the Jets, we talk with New York beat writer Matt Stypulkoski, who covers the team for NJ.com. Check him out on Twitter here.

1. With nothing to play for, what sort of Jets team should we expect come Sunday? Are they capable of playing the role of spoiler?


To their credit, the Jets have been competitive since their Week 11 bye, despite having nothing to play for. They just can't finish a game. There’s a decent chance this game follows the same script as three of the last four – keep it close (and maybe even lead) for about three quarters, then fall apart in the fourth. This defense can't keep it up for 60 minutes right now, so Tom Brady and Co. should be able to put up some points.

2. We’ve heard a lot this week about emerging tight end Chris Herndon developing into a threat. Other than his physical tools, what makes him so good at his job?

His demeanor. Herndon just won the Jets' "Bill Hampton Award" this week, which goes to the rookie who most acts like a pro. Herndon is an even-keeled guy and that never-too-high, never-too-low attitude seems to have gone a long way this season.

3. Is there an under-the-radar type on the New York roster who has the potential to surprise on Sunday?

Keep an eye on wide receiver Deontay Burnett. He started the year on the practice squad, and has only played a few games this season, but he may see time again Sunday with Jermaine Kearse and Quincy Enunwa ailing. He's undersized, but he's athletic. He and Sam Darnold have shown some nice chemistry at times, too – after all, they played together at USC. Is he a future No. 1 receiver? No, but it's not crazy to think he could have a role with the Jets for a few years to come.

4. If you put a percentage on it, what are the chances that Sunday is going to be Todd Bowles’ last game with the Jets?

I'll be conservative and say 90 percent. Frankly, the assumption has been that Bowles has been fired since this team's embarrassing Week 10 loss against the Bills, and things haven't gone much better in the weeks since. And for a defensive-minded coach, he doesn't exactly have the defense clicking this season. Tough to see him returning.

5. Finish this sentence: The Jets win Sunday if….

Brady gets hit by lightning. On a more serious note, they can win if they find a way to stay consistent for 60 minutes. It's been chunk plays, brutal penalties and untimely mistakes that have done the Jets in this season. If they can avoid shooting themselves in the foot against the Patriots, they at least have a chance.