The New York Jets’ starting offense looked in sync against the New York Giants, but there are still some hurdles to clear
The 2022 preseason is finally over, and the New York Football Jets – just like in 2021 – finished undefeated.
In Week 3, Robert Saleh’s team beat the Giants in a 31-27 thriller thanks to another comeback drive led by unsung hero Chris Streveler.
All things considered, it was a good preseason for the Jets. There were no major injuries besides Mekhi Becton’s knee – and, overall, the team performed well. Young players like Garrett Wilson, Breece Hall, and Micheal Clemons showed flashes, while the defense, for the most part, seemed to be playing faster.
Nonetheless, the game against the Giants was the only one in which fans could see the presumed starters playing together (and only for a very brief quarter, against the second stringers of the Other NY Football Team).
The starters’ lack of playing time during the summer generates a feeling of uncertainty among Jets fans. After a 4-13 campaign in 2021, it’s hard to predict what’s going to happen in Week 1 against the Baltimore Ravens.
The Jets are an improved team, but the question remains: How much better are the 2022 Jets? It’s an inquiry that will remain answered at least for the next fourteen days.
Nonetheless, the game film points to some positive, general signs, which should be taken into consideration.
On defense, it is clear that the talent along the defensive line is deep – like, top-shelf of the league deep. New York will be able to generate pressure with a four-man rush, which is a must-needed first step for this Robert Saleh’s scheme.
The cornerback talent is also a lot better, with Sauce Gardner and D.J. Reed on the outside. Also, Kwon Alexander’s addition could be huge for the LB core if No. 9 can stay healthy.
In the end, the Jets’ defense looks like an improved unit, ready to play fast and aggressive.
On offense, all eyes were on quarterback Joe Flacco, who’s most likely going to start against his former team in Week 1. Against the Giants, Flacco was himself: An average quarterback who can play above or below average football depending on the situation.
Flacco spread the ball around with ease, but receivers still can do a better job at separating vs. man coverage (as will be showcased in the clip below).
The offensive line, on the other hand, is in a decent spot considering Duane Brown’s late addition. There’s a lot of ground for improvement, yet the group already is in a much better position than it was at this point last season, especially on the interior.
Game film
Below, Jets fans will see a breakdown of a few plays from the starting offense in its last outing before the regular season.
The focus will be on Joe Flacco’s decision-making. Nonetheless, my two cents on the offense’s overall execution are exposed beneath as well.
(Quick) final thoughts:
- The Jets have valuable players along the DL. Wouldn’t surprise me to see they trading one of their good players.
- Denzel Mims showed up. Maybe Joe Douglas can get good value from him, who seems like a hungry player.
- It wouldn’t surprise me if the Jets traded Bryce Hall. The CB room is deep and Hall has value, while the team also values Brandin Echols. It will be interesting to see.
- The Jets’ starting offense used a lot of 2 TE sets. I expect Uzomah and Conklin to get a lot of snaps on early downs during the season.
- Breece Hall is going to be a big play machine for this team.
- Braxton Berrios is one of the most reliable players the Jets have had on offense in the past 10 years.
