Mike White’s struggles reveal a lot about his NFL future
Two weeks ago, New York Jets fans experienced a “high” as they beat the (at the time) AFC-leading Cincinnati Bengals. Then, as roller-coasters tend to do, the team experienced an extreme “low” just four days later in prime time, getting blown out in Indianapolis against the Colts.
Enter the Buffalo Bills, the defending AFC East champs.
While it would be unfair to say Jets fans thought their team would upset the Bills—even at MetLife Stadium—it would be unfair to think the game would play out the way it ultimately did.
Above is the shorter YouTube clip that features a bit of Mike White, whereas the full Blewett's Blitz film breakdown is below.
How Mike White returned to action—after missing most of the Colts game—put an ugly and unsatisfying bow on the embarrassment of a loss.
White, 26, did some truly good things against Cincinnati and then in two drives in Indianapolis (save for a few near picks that would have added to his then-two count). Those who watch the film closely, however, understood that No. 5 came with some limitations.
While he’s pretty solid pre-snap and in between the ears at times, his mentality doesn’t match up with the arm talent. This has been on display since the Bengals game, as he nearly threw a third interception when trying to connect on a wheel route (leaving it short) and then on the first drive against the Colts.
Against Buffalo, it all caught up with the kid.
After battling through a first half that showcased both good and bad—in the face of tough conditions—White threw much of his hot play away in the second half. From poor play-action execution to a gunslinger mentality he cannot pull off effectively, White’s four-interception game helped pave the way for Joe Flacco against the Miami Dolphins this Sunday.
Blewett’s Blitz breaks down Mike White’s performance against Buffalo, revealing why it finally caught up to the kid.
Elsewhere, Robert Saleh’s defense is closely examined, as it should be. Yet again, the unit gave up 40-plus points, helped along by one of the worst defensive drives of the season (the Bills’ second-half opening drive).
All of that and more on the latest Blewett’s Blitz film breakdown (full video can be seen below).
