Today, it’s for real!
The NY Jets open their 2014 season against the Oakland Raiders.
I can’t wait.
Defense
So much has been written about the depleted DB situation, we will finally get to see it get played out on the field. I’m waiting to see how Coach Rex Ryan uses Rookie safety Calvin Pryor. If he’s the upgrade and defensive disruptor he looks to be, he may be the biggest help on defense.
Two years ago Antonio Cromartie was outstanding, but last year with the hip injury and his poor tackling and coverage, Antonio Allen will be an upgrade for us. We know he will hit, tackle, and just seems to make big plays.
The key on defense is the pass rush, getting pressure without a blitz would sure help the pass defense. But hopefully, Rex will also do some things on Defense to confuse the Rookie QB, Derek Carr.
If the Jets allow him to look composed, we’re in for a long season with all the Hall of Fame (or close) QB’s we are facing the next 6 games!
Offense
The Jets have definitely upgraded their offense. They need to score at least 20 points a game and should with new weapons of TE Jace Amaro, RB Chris Johnson, and WR Erik Decker.
The offensive line must protect QB Geno Smith to have him start the season with confidence. A player that I think is key to our offense is WR Jeremy Kerley. The Jets were 0-4 last year without him, and I expect big things from him.
One new wrinkle would be the Jets finally being able to complete, and for big yards, screen passes with Chris Johnson in space or out of the backfield.
Special Teams
The weakest third of the Jets last year was special teams.
No, not with our wonderful Kicker Nick Folk, but the Jets had No Touchdowns on punt or kickoff returns and the longest PR was 24 yards (By Jeremy Kerley), and KO return was 42 yards, by Josh Cribbs.
We’ve reloaded with new guys on covering kicks and new special teams coach. Nick Bellore is our ace, but he’s battling a calf injury. I’d love to see Rookie Jalen Saunders and super fast Saalim Hakim become threats to score or change field position on returns, so Geno doesn’t have to start drives inside our own 20.
Intensity and Emotion
Most important for the Jets is to play each game with intensity and emotion. The end of last season showed, after losing games after the bye and hurting our playoff chances, the team then played inspired football the last two games to win, but more to make sure Rex Ryan would be kept as Coach. The Jets need to play with that same urgency every game this year.
It’s a brutal schedule! Beating the Oakland Raiders is a must. LET’S GO JETS!
