In what areas did Zach Wilson improve the most against Philadelphia?
Following a shaky comeback in Houston, New York Jets rookie quarterback Zach Wilson found solid footing against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Accuracy problems seemingly behind him, Wilson completed 11 of his first 13 passes of the game. The Jets recorded touchdowns on their first three possessions, all scored by Wilson (two passing and one rushing).
Wilson finished the day with 226 yards and a completion percentage of 60.5%, the second-highest of his career behind his Week 4 game against the Titans. He was named the NFL’s Rookie of the Week for the second time, also having done so following the Tennessee game.
After weeks of frantic, erratic quarterbacking, Wilson finally calmed down, and the rest took care of itself.
As Wilson said himself in his post-game press conference, the Jets had the momentum from the opening whistle.
“Obviously, it started off with Braxton [Berrios] with a great return”, referencing Braxton Berrios’ 79-yard kickoff return to open the game. The Jets were able to take a collective sigh of relief before their first offensive snap, knowing field position was now on their side. They scored a touchdown five plays later and continued their success on their next two following drives.
With his mind at ease early, Zach Wilson stopped overthinking and found his rhythm.
His footwork while throwing was much cleaner than the week prior, leading to his better accuracy. His average time to throw was just over two-and-a-half seconds, the lowest of his career.
Wilson was confident and clutch when it mattered most, converting three of his first four third downs, and scoring on fourth down following his only failed attempt. He improved in nearly every area possible in the week between Houston and Philadelphia.
If all goes right, Wilson’s projection should only continue to point upward.
The Oklahoma Drill Podcast is back to review a bittersweet loss to the Eagles. Listen in as the crew breaks down Zach Wilson’s big day and another disappointing outing from the defense while previewing next week’s game against the New Orleans Saints.
Before the Jets’ defense kept him off the field, Zach Wilson looked ready to clip the Eagles’ wings. When the Saints come marching into the Meadowlands on Sunday, Wilson will have to prove his hot start was more than just a flash in the pan.
