Week in Review
The Jets are coming off a high-scoring Thursday night loss to the Denver Broncos. While the Jets defense struggled to contain Broncos running back Melvin Gordon, who finished the night with 118 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns, they did come away with three interceptions from replacement quarterback Brett Rypien, including one for a touchdown by Pierre Desir. Desir is proving to be a valuable addition to the team. Jets General Manager Joe Douglas has had success scouting veteran cornerbacks during his time with the Ravens’ and Eagles’ front offices. The other highlight of the Jets’ night came early on with Sam Darnold’s 46-yard touchdown run in the first quarter. Darnold’s impressive run led to a stat line that featured the most (84) rushing yards by a quarterback in Jets history. This stat is made even more impressive when considering Darnold missed time during the game for a shoulder injury that will keep him out of the Jets’ week 6 matchup with the Arizona Cardinals.
News of the Week
Adam Gase is still the head coach. This has to be the top story every week until it is no longer a true statement. Gase has all but wasted the rookie contract window for Sam Darnold and runs an offense that is so counterproductive that season ticket holders could demand refunds. Until the New York Jests have an offence that isn’t centered around a thirty-seven-year-old plodding running back, and keeping a great receiving tight end into block on almost every play, they will continue to be stuck in the same cycle of struggles. It sounds as though some of the offensive weapons are starting to get healthy. Le’Veon Bell may return this week, and maybe he can provide a little spark, but expect the offense to continue to struggle to score.
The Week Ahead
The Jets will square off against the Arizona Cardinals this weekend as significant home underdogs. The Cardinals feature a high-powered offense that features some big names: Kyler Murray, DeAndre Hopkins, and company will be tough to contain. Chandler Jones brings experience against the Jets, but there are opportunities to be had against Arizona’s defense as well, which has struggled to defend tight ends and running backs in the passing game so far this season. Le’Veon Bell’s presence could go a long way in giving the Jets a chance to be in this game. With two defenses with quite a few holes, there’s certainly opportunity for some high scoring. A 28-20 implied point total leaves the window tells us that a number of touchdowns will be scored. If the Jets, can get some momentum early, they have a chance to keep it close.
