Since the beginning of training camp, the Jets have focused on the necessity of improving their run defense.
After showing some promise last season, returning players have discussed areas where they need to get better.
Even though they gave up a lot of points in a recent defeat to the Steelers, the Jets are becoming more formidable in terms of stopping the run.
However, Sunday was a different story.
They suffered a heavy defeat against the Bills, losing 30-10 at MetLife Stadium, while conceding 224 rushing yards at an average of 5.2 yards per carry.
They just couldn’t contain Josh Allen or James Cook.
On a day when Allen didn’t have a particularly standout game—completing only 14 of 25 passes for 148 yards—his contributions hardly mattered.
The 224 rushing yards they allowed were the most the Jets have given up since the Colts ran for 260 yards against them on November 5, 2021.
“You might say there was no contest, but there definitely was a struggle,” linebacker Jamian Sherwood stated. “We’ve got injuries to account for. We need to stay disciplined in our gaps and be quicker to tackle. We’ve got to apply all the preparation we’ve done. We need to read formations better and adapt accordingly.”
The defense hit a low point in the second quarter, notably when Cook sprinted for a 44-yard touchdown, dodging several tackles along the way. He notably evaded Quincy Williams during that run.
At that stage, it was 20-3, and the Jets were unable to mount any real comeback.
“I think we over-pursued,” coach Aaron Glenn commented. “But honestly, I don’t want to analyze it too deeply until I review the film. The tackle I should’ve made on that play is something we need to address.”
Overall, it was just a rough outing for the defense.
After two games, the Jets have allowed a total of 64 points, with the performance slightly deteriorating from one game to the next.
“It’s not acceptable,” safety Andre Cisco remarked. “I think a hard look in the mirror is essential for growth.”
