Where Do The New York Jets Go From Here?
By Tyson Rauch
The New York Jets have lost four games in a row and the aura of negativity seems to be increasing around the organization on a daily basis.The media vultures are circling trying to find any sign of weakness while a good portion of the Jets fan base is questioning every decision made by the team since 1970. It is sink or swim time for the 2014 version of the New York Jets and the challenge will be significant as they take on two of the best teams in the AFC, the Broncos and Patriots, over the next 8 days.
Can the Jets muster up any type of offense?
Statistically the New York Jets have one of the worst offenses in the NFL ranking 30th in points and 27th in total yards.To add insult to injury the Jets also have one of the worst red zone efficiency percentages in the league as well.
While the numbers look bleak, there is definitely an opportunity for improvement.The Jets have the 6th ranked rushing attack in the NFL spearheaded by a solid trio of Chris Ivory, Chris Johnson, and Bilal Powell. Gang Green has to stay true to their ground and pound identity and feature the power running game with Powell and Ivory. Chris Johnson can be a change of pace back and should be utilized as a receiver out of the backfield.
If the Jets can effectively and consistently run the football the passing game opens up with play action opportunities as the opposing defense is off balance. In addition, the Jets can modify their game plan to implement a quick passing attack featuring Jeremy Kerley and Greg Salas. Slant passes will get the ball out of Geno Smith’s hands faster and will keep the defense on their toes. As you open up the air attack you could then feature Eric Decker or tight ends Jeff Cumberland and Jace Amaro. It is all about maximizing resources, something that offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg seems to be struggling with.
Is Geno the guy?
It has been a tough couple of weeks for quarterback Geno Smith as his inconsistent play is sucking the life out of the offense. Smith has to make better decisions with the football and take what the defense gives him. Geno must do a better job of moving around the pocket and use his legs when the defense is giving him space.The Jets second year signal caller has to look adversity in the face and work right through it. Failure to do so will cost Smith his job sooner rather than later.
Top ranked defense?
The Jets defense has been stout against the run, but has struggled against the pass. The pass defense should get a big lift with Antonio Allen returning to safety and Dee Milliner back at the cornerback position. The addition of Milliner and Allen will give the Jets much needed athletic ability in the defensive backfield and should provide Rex Ryan with more options in terms of schemes. If the Jets can clean up some of their coverage issues it should buy enough time for the front seven to get after the quarterback.
All is not lost
Contrary to popular belief all is not lost with the New York Jets. Rex Ryan and his staff have to do a better job of coaching up their players and maximizing their resources. A healthy Dee Milliner and Eric Decker is a great start.
The Jets players, as a team, must perform at a higher level by reducing mental mistakes and executing the plays as called. Lack of effort and mental lapses can no longer be tolerated.
Last, but not least, the New York Jets as an organization need to believe in themselves. The team’s backs are against the wall and everyone is writing them off. Take each game one quarter at a time with a goal of improving and giving their opponent every ounce of their energy. Believe to achieve and let the cards fall where they may. It will not be easy, and it may not be pretty, but it can be accomplished.The season is in your hands Rex Ryan.
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Tyson Rauch is a freelance writer covering all things NFL. His work can be found on Examiner.com.
