Jets vs. Lions: What to watch for in the preseason opener
Aug 3, 2013; Cortland, NY, USA; New York Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez (6) drops back to pass during training camp at SUNY Cortland. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports
After what seems like decades of anticipation, and the media making a circus out of the New York Jets (again) with its speculation, the Jets return to the field to play their preseason opener against the Detroit Lions on Friday, August 9 at Ford Field. Yes, it’s just a preseason game, but the Jets are entering the game with question marks at several positions, so there are a lot of things that we need to keep an eye on with this team.
(Keep in mind that it’s the first preseason game, so the first-stringers won’t be on the field for too long)
The Jets defense
The Jets defense ranked eighth overall last season, but it could’ve been better—their run defense was almost non-existent, ranking 25th overall. Trying to put a miserable season behind them, the Jets organization wanted a fresh start, so they hired a new general manager, and got rid of a lot of familiar faces. On defense, the Jets lost some key defensive pieces like Darrelle Revis, Bart Scott, LaRon Landry and Sione Pouha.
Of course they brought in some fresh faces: Cornerback Dee Milliner was drafted to fill in the hole that was left by Revis’ departure. But will his surgically repaired shoulder hold up? How will he fare against the Lions’ high-octane offense? The Jets also brought in rookie defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson to fill in the hole left by Pouha’s departure. He’s been having a strong training camp, but how will he do against in live situations. Will he help strengthen the Jets’ pass-rush and improve their run-defense?
Speaking of pass-rush, the Jets’ pass-rush wasn’t as fierce as it used to be. But with the emergence of Mo Wilkerson, and the addition of the young guys like Richardson, coupled with Kenrick Ellis and Quinton Coples, it may become one of the best defensive line’s in the league. But, before that happens, let’s see how they attack the Lions’ high powered offense, and new offensive weapon Reggie Bush.
How about that offensive line
The Jets offensive line was always good…until last season. There were questions at right tackle, and D’Brickashaw Ferguson had a down year. They couldn’t protect the quarterback, and the Jets’ run-game suffered. With the loss of a couple of players, how will the o-line fare this year? How will they do against the Lions’ ferocious pass-rush—Suh and Fairley and Ziggy Ansah coming at them? Will they be able to protect Mark Sanchez? Which leads to:
How will the Jets receivers do?
It’s no secret the Jets’ offense was awful last season (c’mon, they ranked 30th in offense!). Like last season, the team is short on playmakers, and with Santonio Holmes out the other players need to step up. Second year receiver Stephen Hill is having a strong training camp, as is Jeremy Kerley, Ryan Spadola and Clyde Gates, but those names don’t exactly strike fear in an opponent. The addition of Braylon Edwards is a plus, but he won’t be a difference maker. It should be interesting to see how this receiving corp will do.
What’s going on with the running back situation?
The Jets’ running back group has been decimated by injuries. Chris Ivory, who was acquired this offseason from the Saints, has been hampered by injuries; Joe McKnight is injured, and who knows where Mike Goodson is. One good thing has emerged from this, though. Third-year running back Bilal Powell has been turning heads with his performances in training camp—breaking tackles for long runs, and catching passes out of the back field. Can he carry those performances over to real games? He’s been playing like a No. 1 back. How long can he keep it up for?
The quarterback battle
On Tuesday, it was announced that Mark Sanchez was going to start against the Detroit Lions. Most Jets fans immediately rioted after hearing the news. Why? It’s only the first preseason game. Plus, Sanchez has been good in training camp, so he did earn it.
Let’s see if Sanchez, who isn’t going to wear his red jersey, can carry that over into a game against the Lions and their defensive line coming after him. He does have the experience, and in Mornhinweg’s system he may prove doubters wrong and flourish.
What about Geno? It’ll be fun to watch Geno and what he can do in a real game. Does he have somewhat of a grasp on Mornhinweg’s offense? Can he handle the pressure? He’s had a good training camp overall, but he has been in a rut the past few practices.
Something to think about: The Jets organization either felt Sanchez earned the right to start, or they didn’t want to put their “future” quarterback Geno Smith in jeopardy and get in there right away to face the likes of Suh and Fairley, and possibly get hurt. They know he’s not 100 percent ready, and something can go wrong. So why not put Sanchez in?