Jets vs. Patriots live updates: NFL ‘Thursday Night Football’ score, prediction, odds and latest – The Athletic

The Patriots are again relying on a deep group of wide receivers as they play a second straight game without Kayshon Boutte, out due to a hamstring injury.

Last week, they got a big play from Kyle Williams to make up for Boutte’s absence, but that long touchdown reception was Williams’ lone catch while Boutte was out.

So even though the Jets don’t pose much of a threat (the Patriots are 13-point favorites, per Bet MGM), the Pats will need Williams to step up again.

The Patriots will also be without starting running back Rhamondre Stevenson (toe), linebacker Christian Elliss (hip) and tight end Austin Hooper (concussion).

That last injury is an important one. The Patriots love to line up in multiple tight end formations and then throw out of those looks, but may not have that luxury with Hooper out. They don’t have a reliable No. 3 tight end behind Hooper and Hunter Henry with fullback Jack Westover likely assuming that role.

So it’ll be interesting to see whether the Patriots use more 11 personnel with three wide receivers or whether they trust Westover in big formations.