Jets’ Preseason Opener Against Buccaneers: A Mixed Bag

So, it turns out the Jets offense can still get things done, even against the Buccaneers’ backups and with a second-string quarterback on the field. On Friday night, the Jets faced off against Tampa Bay without their starting quarterback, Geno Smith, who was sidelined due to an ankle injury. This left rookie Cade Klubnik to take the lead in the preseason opener.

Klubnik, supported by the starting offense, led a promising 12-play drive that culminated in a field goal. Shortly after, he connected with his backups, scoring a touchdown in just four plays. Overall, he completed 5 of 7 passes for 56 yards over 16 snaps. This strong showing certainly boosted his chances of securing the backup quarterback position.

Things took a turn, though, when Bailey Zappe replaced Klubnik and threw two interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown. This drop in performance made Klubnik’s earlier efforts all the more relevant.

Jets coach Aaron Glenn expressed that Klubnik was “challenging at least a little bit” to begin with, but he was pleased when he confirmed the rookie would start. Glenn deemed the result for Klubnik as quite favorable, although he did mention, ironically, that he thought Klubnik “did a terrible job,” likely due to his limited game reps.“However, he deserves credit for maintaining composure during the match,” Glenn remarked.

Though Klubnik’s performance stood out, overall, the Jets faced difficulties. They lost 24-16 as the Buccaneers rested all their starters and Smith couldn’t play. It was unexpected for Smith to be out, with Glenn noting that his “ankle hurts,” impacting daily play. A few series from Smith could have really helped the team find their rhythm after a rigorous joint practice earlier in the week.

The Jets kicked off the game with a 65-yard drive over 12 plays, though it came to a halt at the 9-yard line, where Cade York successfully kicked a 27-yard field goal for a 3-0 lead. Klubnik seemed at ease during this drive; despite one missed handoff, he connected on his first pass to tight end Mason Taylor for 12 yards and later hit Garrett Wilson on a crucial third down.

This was a notable performance for Klubnik, a fourth-round pick from Clemson, who appeared undeterred by the pressure of his first NFL game. He said, “I’m a young player, but I think I’m calm. I don’t feel too flustered during important moments.” It was also a good outing for Wilson, who had missed the last stretch of the previous season due to a knee injury, as he looked sharp, making plays and securing a key third down.

There was a moment where Breece Hall could have easily scored, breaking towards the end zone after a 14-yard gain, but he stumbled near the sidelines at the Bucs’ 9-yard line. Klubnik missed a chance for a touchdown pass to Wilson, instead sending the ball out of the end zone. York kicked another field goal later in the half, this time from 38 yards, but there was a slight delay before the officials confirmed it was good. He’s in competition with Jason Saunders, who also kicked a field goal in the game.

After the initial drive, the starters seated themselves, leaving Klubnik with the backups. The Jets managed to reach the end zone again, this time with Braylon Allen making a great cut for a 31-yard touchdown that put the Jets up 10-0 with just over two minutes left in the first quarter. At that point, Klubnik had certainly cemented his role as the likely backup.

Glenn commented, “He’s upset,” indicating Klubnik’s competitive spirit and his confidence in his abilities. However, Zappe’s stint didn’t go as planned; he quickly threw an interception that Aiden Garnes returned for a touchdown, bringing the game to a tie at 10-10. Another interception followed shortly, though this one wasn’t entirely Zappe’s fault as a pass bounced off receiver Arian Smith’s hands.

On the defensive side, the Jets’ starting unit allowed just one first down over two series. They faced off against the Buccaneers’ reserves, including third-string quarterback Connor Bazelak, while Baker Mayfield sat out in casual attire due to injury. Will McDonald shone with a notable sack on Bazelak, while rookie David Bailey had a quieter debut, logging only eight snaps with one tackle and some pressure on the quarterback.