Three key matchups in 'MNF' matchup between Jets and Chargers

The Jets return to prime-time in their Week 9 matchup against the Chargers. Here's a look at three key matchups New York must win if it wants to secure its fourth victory in a row on "Monday Night Football."

Sauce Gardner and D.J. Reed vs. Keenan Allen

The Jets' star cornerback duo will have their hands full with Allen, who's once again cemented himself as one of the league's premier wideouts this season. The 31-year-old has the eighth most reception yards (643), yards per game (91.9) and receptions (54) in the NFL.

Jets HC Robert Saleh and DC Jeff Ulbrich have avoided using Gardner, their All-Pro corner, to shadow other team's top receiver in games, instead placing more trust in their zone-defense scheme. Against the Cowboys and Eagles, however, this plan severely backfired, as CeeDee Lamb and A.J. Brown torched New York's defense for 143 and 131 receiving yards, respectively. 

If Allen experiences similar receiving success early in the contest, the Jets would be wise to make a coverage adjustment.      

Quincy Williams vs. Austin Ekeler

On the heels of being named the AFC Defensive Player of the Month for October, Williams will face one of his hardest tests this season — shutting down Ekeler. Despite missing three games this season with an ankle injury, the running back remains a viable threat in the pass and run game as he continues to inch closer to 100% health.

Williams has broken out as one of the NFL's best linebackers this season, amassing 55 solo tackles, 10.5 stuffs, two sacks and a forced fumble. The Jets will rely on him even more in stopping the run following the loss of defensive tackle Al Woods, who suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in Week 8.   

Mekhi Becton and Duane Brown vs. Joey Bosa

If the Jets are to have any chance of winning on Monday, they must be able to establish the run and protect quarterback Zach Wilson from the Chargers' fearsome defensive line. With several question marks on New York's injury-riddled offensive line, all eyes will be on Becton to help solidify the front.

Against the Giants on Oct. 29, Becton struggled mightily to contain Giants' Kayvon Thibodeaux, who registered two sacks and a forced fumble when lined up against him. The 24-year-old faces an even tougher matchup in Week 9, having to block Bosa, a four-time Pro Bowler with four sacks this season. 

Reinforcements may be on the way, as Jets left tackle Duane Brown practiced for the first time since Week 2 on Nov. 2. If the veteran lineman is able to suit up, Becton would likely move back to right tackle, where he began the season. Whoever starts at left tackle opposite Bosa has a tough task ahead.