NFL
By: Edwin Duodu
Coming off a great win last weekend against the Cleveland Browns, the New York Jets look to make a statement. Next up, the Cincinnati Bengals, who have dragged themselves into a 0-2 start. Many fans will recall the “Mike White game,” where he torched the Bengals for 405 and three touchdowns last season.
The Bengals were unprepared but look to be awake this time around. Unfortunately, their recent performances have probably instilled disbelief around the fanbase. The thought of falling to an 0-3 start after making the Super Bowl the year before would be disastrous, a thought that could play into the Jet’s hands.
Joe Flacco again threw for over 300 yards for the second straight week. Some said this wouldn’t be sustainable for the Jets to win games. However, his ability to make the necessary reads and throws prompted the upset in Cleveland. It also helps that Flacco has built a connection with his young receivers, Elijah Moore and Garrett Wilson, who were star performers last week.
The Bengals portray similar looks on defense as the Browns, which should give Mike LaFleur the chance to exploit their coverage-based schemes. The running game has proven serviceable at times and should be enough to keep the entire offensive playbook open. It’s up to Flacco to once again play an efficient game and avoid the big mistake that may turn the tide in Cincinnati’s favor. The real test comes on the other side of the ball.
The Jets defense made some big plays last year to defeat the Bengals but still gave up 31 points. This time around, teams seem to be dialing up on the schemes Brian Callahan is devising. Secondaries aren’t being fooled enough to be threatened. That may also give New York an advantage, considering that both their cornerbacks Sauce Gardner and DJ Reed have been playing excellently so far.
It also doesn’t help that the “revamped” offensive line has been playing poorly. There are many new faces, and chemistry needs to be built for any success to show upfront. However, the line has given up 13+ sacks through two games, an aspect of the game that the Jets need to dominate in. If that doesn’t happen, it may be a long afternoon for trying to defend the talented receiving trio that the Bengals boast.
There is hope now in New York, no matter how it happened. That hope could significantly increase if the Jets pull off the upset on Sunday. It will be the biggest statement thus far. The only question is, which Bengals unit will we see? Will we see a team playing with desperation and fight, or will they continue to look sloppy on offense? No matter what happens, Robert Saleh needs to be prepared.
