TL;DR
- New York Jets (2-9) face Atlanta Falcons (4-7) Sunday, both needing wins for playoff hopes.
- Running backs Breece Hall and Bijan Robinson have a college rivalry continuing into the NFL.
- Both star running backs aim for better performances in a game with backup quarterbacks.
- Rain is predicted for Sunday's game, likely increasing the importance of the running game.
The 2-9 New York Jets are preparing for a tilt on Sunday with the 4-7 Atlanta Falcons.
The seasons for both teams are hanging by a thread; while neither has been officially knocked out of playoff contention, they require significant assistance to rejoin the competition.
Beyond just playoff seeding, Sunday's game also features a battle of pride between running backs Breece Hall and Bijan Robinson.
Hall on Robinson bond
During his press conference on Friday, Hall was questioned regarding his connection with The Falcons' prominent running back.
"That's my boy. That's been my boy since college. Excited to go against him this week," Hall told reporters.
"Since college, I think I'm 2-1 vs. Him so I'm up in our little series right now."
The star running backs clearly share a friendly rapport, a connection that began during their time at Iowa State and Texas.
In their sole NFL encounter during 2023, Robinson emerged victorious over Hall as the Falcons secured a 13-8 win against the Jets amidst rainy conditions at MetLife Stadium.
Hall accumulated 45 yards from scrimmage on 19 carries, whereas Robinson gained 79 yards on 21 carries. Neither player scored.
The two offensive stars are looking for improved performances compared to their 2023 showings, though Sunday's weather outlook is again predicting rain.
Given that the Jets and Falcons are starting backup quarterbacks Tyrod Taylor and Kirk Cousins, respectively, anticipate a significant role for their running backs.
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