Robert Saleh and the New York Jets go with veteran Joe Flacco over Cinderella Mike White
The more the New York Jets fail on Sunday, the more the fanbase fractures. It’s simply human nature, really.
Frustration and hopelessness lead to stronger and more enthusiastic opinions that polarize the entire group. This especially happens when a shocking starting quarterback decision is made—just like the one Robert Saleh announced on Wednesday.
Suddenly, it’s Joe Flacco time, and much of the fanbase is torn.
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On one hand, it’s not that big of a deal when thinking about who Flacco is a quarterback in comparison to the Cinderella Mike White. One guy is a Super Bowl MVP while the other has put forth just one tremendous game.
Saleh cited the idea that they believe Flacco gives the Jets the best chance to win against the Miami Dolphins’ uniquely aggressive defense. So, from a purely strategic standpoint, Flacco makes sense.
The problem arises when fans act as if this decision shouldn’t force anybody to raise an eyebrow at least a little.
After a terrific, take what the defense allowed, game against the Cincinnati Bengals, White then followed it up with a touchdown drive in two tries against the Indianapolis Colts. While his final Buffalo grade should be a clear F, the first-half film showcases a quarterback who wasn’t half-bad at times.
The Bills completely locked up the Jets’ downfield threats and White did what he could in the first half. It was the second half that exposed some of his downfield limitations.
Nonetheless, is one bad game against the league’s top defense (and coverage team) enough to make such a drastic change—especially after the glowing commentary that came from Saleh and company?
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One moment, Saleh is telling the world that “anything’s possible” as it relates to the Jets starting quarterback. A split-second later (a few weeks is a split-second in NFL time), the kid who prompted those incredible words is benched for a 36-year-old quarterback who further disconnects the fans from anything remotely resembling Jets hope.
Sometimes, the contrarian in us gets the best of us. The key is to not take on the contrarian position for the sake of it. This situation raises far too many questions to simply think it’s business as usual—no matter your position on Mike White’s long-term potential.
Is Flacco starting a big deal in the grand scheme of things, especially with Zach Wilson close to returning? Not at all. At the same time, it is most definitely a situation that deserves a second and more in-depth look, thanks to the myriad of circumstances involved.
Jet X Live breaks down the Joe Flacco decision and much more relating to the 2-7 New York Jets.
