Jets’ Sauce Gardner Prepares for Challenge Against Josh Allen
Josh Allen delivered another impressive performance against the Ravens on Sunday night. Now, Sauce Gardner and the Jets defense are gearing up to contain the likely MVP as they prepare to face the Bills in week two at MetLife Stadium.
“It’s always a tough matchup. Honestly, it’s not something I particularly enjoy,” Gardner remarked when asked about Allen on Wednesday. “As a corner, we don’t match up directly against quarterbacks, so it’s a different dynamic.”
Gardner continued, “But I’m definitely looking forward to it. He’s a fierce competitor, and we certainly know what he brings to the table.”
In Sunday’s season opener, former Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers threw for 244 yards and four touchdowns while playing for the Steelers.
Gardner, who has reached Pro Bowl status in his first three NFL seasons, emphasized that the Jets need to improve their passing defense against Allen. “We did a decent job in the run game. Our front seven held their ground, but as a secondary, there’s definitely room for improvement,” he noted.
When faced with a scrambling Allen, standing at 6-foot-5, Gardner understands the importance of sticking with his assigned receiver instead of rushing to tackle the quarterback.
“I’ve got to focus on my responsibilities. If I’m covering my man, I need to stick with him,” Gardner explained. “Allen can pull off some unbelievable throws, even when on the run. So, we need to be disciplined in our coverage and trust our front seven to do their job.”
The Jets have recently cut kick returner Xavier Gipson, who had a crucial fumble during their loss, and signed receiver/returner Isaiah Williams, who previously played for the Lions under head coach Aaron Glenn.
“We’re bringing in new talent. Isaiah Williams is someone we know well from Detroit,” Glenn mentioned. “He was with us for a while, and we’re eager to see how he fits into the mix.”
Another possible player for an expanded role is rookie Jamal Prickett, currently on the Jets’ practice squad.
Meanwhile, rookie tight end Mason Taylor (ankle) and returnee Kennenu Wang Go (hamstring) are both dealing with injuries, as noted by Glenn. Additionally, defensive tackle Jay Tufele has been made exempt from practice.
