Team Grades: Resilient Jets Fall Short To The Denver Broncos
By Tyson Rauch
The New York Jets entered Sunday's game against the Denver Broncos as heavy underdogs. The Jets did their best to hang tough against one of the league's elite, but made far too many mistakes to come away with a victory. Some may consider Gang Green's 31-17 loss to the Broncos a moral victory, but at 1-5 there is no such thing.
Offense Grade: C-
It was tough sledding for New York on Sunday as the offense could only muster 31 rushing yards and 204 total yards. The play of the offensive line remains a concern as the unit continues to struggle against relentless pressure. Rookie tight end Jace Amaro had a breakout game with 10 catches and a touchdown while wide receiver Eric Decker added 6 grabs and a touchdown against his former team. Jeremy Kerley remains missing in the game plan which is odd considering the fact that he is one of the best receivers on the team.
Defense Grade: B-
The Jets defense suffered a huge blow early in the game when defensive back Dee Milliner left with a serious leg injury. The defense held their own playing a variety of zone schemes that were supported by a very aggressive pass rush. The front seven did an excellent job of collapsing the pocket on Peyton Manning but struggled to stop the running game yielding a 100 yards to Ronnie Hillman. Part of the rushing yards could be attributed to the defensive game plan, the rest were given up trying to assist the struggling pass defense.
Quarterback Grade: C
Another tough day for Geno Smith as he faced constant pressure in the pocket. Smith established good rhythm with Amaro and Decker but continues to hold on to the football too long and fails to utilize his legs when surrounded by defenders. Geno has to improve his footwork in the pocket and have better awareness of the game situation.
Smith's interception for a touchdown that ended the game was more a product of a desperate situation rather than his decision-making.
Special Teams Grade: D
Whenever the defense made a big stop either the return game or the punter let the team down. The Jets had a costly punt return fumble in the second quarter, which completely changed the momentum of the game. Then with the game on the line and the team trying to fight back Ryan Quigley came up short with 2 lousy kicks. In order for the New York Jets to win every aspect of the team must contribute. Right now the return game and the punting have not been effective enough.
Season on the brink
A tough loss for Rex Ryan and his Jets as the team had an opportunity to win the game. The defense did an excellent job of slowing down Peyton Manning but the New York offense and special teams could not hold up their end of the bargain. To the Jets credit the team played hard and with emotion, and failed to quit while down by 17 points. With the season truly on the brink Gang Green faces the New England Patriots on Thursday night.
For more Jets news and updates, visit Jets Central.
Tyson Rauch is a freelance writer covering all things NFL. His work can be found on Examiner.com.
