New York Jets: Time For A Reality Check

The phrase “you are what your record says you are” is often used in the National Football League to describe a team.  Well following their 30-21 loss to the New England Patriots the New York Jets are now a 2-3 team (including 3 conference losses in a row), which means they are not a very good one.  Take away a Tony Romo fourth quarter meltdown and Gang Green is 1-4.  It is time for Rex Ryan and his team to undergo a reality check as this season is suddenly heading in the wrong direction.

Offense- Over the last two years the Jets offensive strategy was built around “ground and pound” which was spearheaded by their powerful offensive line.  The power running game would set up the passing game and would wear down opposing defenses.  Well after 5 games the Jets running attack is one of the worst in football, ranked 31st, and the offensive line statistically is not fairing much better as they are ranked 22nd.  The passing game is also struggling as Mark Sanchez and company are ranked 21st in the NFL.

Defense- The Jets defense under Rex Ryan has been one of the best in the NFL, especially against the run.  Gang Green would shut down the opposing team’s running game forcing the offense to become one dimensional.  After 5 weeks this season Gang Green is ranked 26th against the run, which includes horrible performances against the Raiders and Patriots where the unit could not get off the field with the game on the line.

Overall- The fact of the matter is that the Jets are a team that is searching for answers on both sides of the ball.  At this point the team really has nothing to hold their hat on as the foundation of what Rex Ryan’s team was built upon, the running game and run defense, has been next to non-existent.  Add in mental mistakes and untimely penalties and it is no secret why the Jets have lost 3 in a row.

So where do the Jets go from here? Gang Green will take on the winless Miami Dolphins on Monday night, but this game will be far from easy.  The Dolphins are coming off of a bye and would  love to put another hole in the Jets sinking ship.  Gang Green must get back to their winning ways by playing smart, physical football.  Go back to basics and make everyone accountable for their actions.  If the offense needs to be streamlined in order to be more efficient so be it.  If a veteran player has to be benched due to poor performance, make it happen.  If the head coach has to get better control of his locker room, then start ruffling some feathers Rex.  The Jets are far too talented a team to let this season slip away.  Now is not the time to talk about improving and winning, it is about taking the actions to improve the results on the field.  These are the times when winning coaches shine the most, when the team is starting to face some turmoil.  Now is the time for Rex Ryan to face reality and get his team back on track.

Tyson Rauch

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