Jets vs. Bears prediction, props: Braelon Allens increased role will pay dividends in Week 4

For whatever it’s worth, the Jets have been competitive through their 1-2 start. Amid a 15-year playoff drought, I’d say it counts for something. The next challenge doesn’t only come in the form of a Chicago Bears team that just carved up the Eagles with their backup quarterback, it’s the litany of injuries the Jets must persevere through. Their most important absence is 1,000-yard rusher Breece Hall, who was officially ruled out Friday because of a right quadriceps injury. That gives the backfield to Braelon Allen on Sunday.The third-year power back has been the Jets’ long-term development project to complement Hall as a pass-catcher. Allen has 61 yards and a touchdown on his 19 carries this season, but there’s a likelihood he’s in for a larger share of the workload than Hall normally receives.  The Jets are going to need Allen to help them keep pace with the NFL’s No.1 rushing attack, and at 6-foot-1 and 235 pounds, Allen is built to absorb volume.Offensive coordinator Frank Reich entered the season emphasizing a vigorous rushing attack behind an offensive line the Jets believe can be a strength.The Bears and Jets have controlled possession better than the rest of the NFL, averaging  34:32 and 34:08, respectively.

That sets up a matchup where sustained drives and the running game will be supreme. And he has a favorable opportunity to make an impression as a trusted three-down weapon: Chicago has allowed an opposing running back to either reach 100 rushing yards or score a touchdown in two of its first three games.  Allen received 10 carries in the season opener against Tennessee, turning them into 40 yards while also having a 23-yard touchdown wiped out by a penalty.The Jets have been efficient when drives reach scoring territory, converting 66.7 percent of their red-zone trips into touchdowns. THE PLAY: Same Game Parlay: Braelon Allen Over 13.5 Rush Attempts + Anytime Touchdown (+212, DraftKings)Sean Treppedi handicaps the NFL, NHL, M...