Uncovering the Jets’ Identity: Insights from Their Preseason Struggles Against the Giants

This preseason, the Jets showed their game plan more clearly than if they had posted it on the big screen at MetLife Stadium. The strategy? Run the ball—often.

In their latest match against the Giants, the Jets didn’t waste time. They ran the ball for ten straight plays, even with quarterback Justin Fields scrambling on a designed pass. It’s all about utilizing Fields’ athleticism to keep defenses guessing. However, after the game, Coach Aaron Glenn wasn’t impressed. “We didn’t execute well enough,” he said after the 31-12 loss. “Running was okay, but overall we were sloppy.”

Fields ended the game completing just one out of five passes for a mere four yards. His one good throw connected with rookie tight end Mason Taylor, who made a solid catch while moving toward the sideline.

“It’s not real yet,” said star receiver Garrett Wilson. “We’re still working things out, but we’ll be ready.”

Fields had a rough outing, with one particularly bad screen pass that left Wilson on the ground. Glenn noted that the passing game needs more consistency. “There have been good days in camp, but today wasn’t one of them,” he said. Yet he still trusts his players, believing in their potential.

Another challenge for Fields is identifying a reliable second receiver. While he connected well with Wilson, players like Brandon Smith and Quentin Skinner showed promise when they worked with backup quarterbacks. When facing a crucial third down, the Jets opted for a draw play with Braelon Allen. Remarkably, Allen managed to push through for an 11-yard gain, showing the strength in their running game.

The Jets’ rushing strategy is a drastic shift from last season when they ranked dead last in rushing attempts. This year is different, even without injured running back Isaiah Davis. Historically, when Fields played for the Bears, they averaged over 150 rushing yards per game in his first 44 starts. His own stats speak volumes; he averaged 50 yards rushing per game throughout his career, including over 1,100 yards in 2022.

Fields emphasized that success begins with the offensive line. “When we take what the defense gives us, we’ll have bigger plays later,” he explained. The big question now is whether he will see more action against the Eagles, or if that Giants game was his last of the preseason.

With just four practices left before the opener against the Steelers, timing is crucial. Fields and the coaching staff need every rep to fine-tune their strategy. “There’s always room to improve,” Fields said. “That’s just how it is.”

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