Michael Carter vs. Ty Johnson: Who Will Lead the Jets Backfield in Week 3?

Quarterback Zach Wilson has received a chunk of negative publicity for his errant throws, so much that it has potentially squandered any positive publicity for running backs Michael Carter and Ty Johnson. While their numbers aren’t amazing by any means, average numbers should be a welcomed sight for this inexperienced offense. 

New York heads into Empower Field at Mile High in Denver on Sunday to face a Denver Broncos team that has allowed only 67.5 rushing yards per game and 192.5 passing yards per game in their 2-0 start. To be fair, Denver faced the New York Giants and the Jacksonville Jaguars the first two weeks, but it’s the Jets offense we’re talking about here.

Which running back will be chosen to lead the way through the Broncos’ defense?

I know college numbers don’t mean all that much in the NFL, but Carter averaged eight yards per carry at UNC last year. That’s a pretty big number. He’s averaged 4.33 so far in his small sample of NFL action, slightly better than his backfield mate Johnson at 4.06.

Michael Carter vs. Ty Johnson Stat Comparison

Touches (Carries + Receptions)

• Carter: 18
• Johnson: 17

Yardage (Rushing and Receiving Yards)

• Carter: 108 yards
• Johnson: 76 yards

Neither Carter or Johnson have found the end zone yet for the Jets, so scoring shouldn’t be swaying head coach Robert Saleh’s running back usage here. 

With the game script calling for a lot of passing in the early part of the season, I’ll say that trend continues and the better receiving back in Carter should lead the backfield in Week 3.

No matter the leading man in the backfield, New York has their hands full against Denver, currently 10.5-point underdogs on WynnBET Sportsbook.

Now, Saleh just needs to keep Tevin Coleman out of the mix.

Will Carter or Johnson lead the Jets backfield in Week 3? Make your pick at WynnBET.