NFL
By: Edwin Duodu
The New York Jets welcomed Zach Wilson back into the starting lineup on Sunday against the Houston Texans. In his return, we saw him lead the team to its first victory of the season. Sort of. The defensive performance outshined the likes of Wilson’s struggles, as he looked jittery and out of sync. However, there are a few signs of progress that Zach Wilson displayed in which we haven’t seen too much of within his first seven starts. It’s a small portion, but it still counts.
Mike LaFleur’s offense instills throws that should allow a quarterback to get in a groove. Despite this philosophy, Wilson struggled to make those throws because of accuracy issues; and he wasn’t looking for them. In the early part of the season, there were too many times that he sought out the second level throw first when a defense covered it or tried to wait for an explosive play to develop. It resulted in late interceptions and sacks taken.
Against the Texans, it was encouraging to see him take what the defense gave him and try to deliver the football to his receivers. This aspect of his game was what he wanted to emphasize in his return after watching Mike White and Joe Flacco make effective reads during games.
One example came in the third quarter, where Zach Wilson hit Braxton Berrios on a short hitch route and let him do the rest. Berrios ended up scampering for 46 yards. This is an instance where you throw quickly to get the ball out, and let your receivers make plays with after the catch. It’s what could protect Wilson as the season goes on and may get him on an upward path to finishing his rookie campaign.
Looking for check-down options wasn’t all perfect. He missed some “easy” throws to his running backs that could’ve given the offense a manageable chance on 3rd down situations. The Jets were only 2-13 on 3rd down efficiency, which emphasizes the importance for Wilson to deliver more on the “layups” that LaFleur’s scheme gives him.
While viewing the game, we noticed that he gained confidence and made a couple of plays that reminded you of what he could be for the Jets. There was a connection with Elijah Moore that was rarely there within the first six games together. Wilson also had the guts to improvise and score a rushing touchdown early in the third quarter. According to head coach Robert Saleh, that play was supposed to be a designed handoff to the running back. Wilson recognized a “fully loaded box” and kept the football. These are examples that will help in the long run of his development.
The Jets win by no means a great one. However, it’s a great morale booster for the team, which is a small step towards building a winning culture. Teams need wins like these to gain momentum, especially for their young quarterbacks. Zach Wilson underperformed in his return, but this win and his willingness to try and look for his check-down options should be encouraging for New York fans.
Robert Saleh mentioned earlier this season that it would be alright for Wilson sometimes to play “boring football.” Well, Saleh, boring football led to the team’s first road win this season, and that’s an achievement that the whole team and fans should be proud of.
