Game recap: Jets rookies get it done with shock win in Green Bay

For the first time in what feels like forever, the New York Jets are looking good. Following a dominant victory over the Dolphins, the Jets backed their form up with a superb win over the Green Bay Packers, putting Gang Green 4-2 after six weekends of the season.

Defense turns on the heat

Quinnen Willliams was a hazard yesterday in Green Bay. It’s nothing new for the four-year starter, who has been steadily impacting games during each season. The heated outburst Williams had with defensive line coach Aaron Whitecotton in Week Three is officially old news. The former third overall pick sacked Aaron Rodgers twice and blocked a field goal attempt.

He attributed the pre-snap communication between defenders for his high level of play. “When we execute and communicate to the highest level, we can be a dangerous defense. It’s no Quinnen Williams making these plays if it wasn’t for C.J. relaying the call or Bryce rushing the edge. It’s never just #95 on that field.”

Williams stat line included five quarterback pressures, five tackles, and two sacks. He’s climbing toward the first tier of interior defensive lineman in terms of talent. The first tier is firm with Aaron Donald, Chris Jones, and Fletcher Cox.

Ahmad “Sauce” Gardener’s personality fits Robert Saleh’s team. An earned Richard Sherman-like assuredness translates to the cornerback position. Whether or not fans approve of the antics of wearing a cheesehead, the on-the-field results are definitive.

In 40 man coverage plays, opponents completed one pass on Sauce for six yards. Coaches love a long corner with agility. Sauce can stay with virtually any receiver regardless of perfect fluidity on routes. In six games, he’s managed at least one pass defense.

Aaron Rodgers nearly threw a pick-six his way but the call was  reversed on video review because the ball hit the ground. The defense is comfortable in multiple coverages. They were all over Jaylen Waddle and Tyreek Hill on deep passes despite some pass interference calls.

Next week features another set of speedy receivers in Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton. Russell Wilson has yet to cook against any team in 2022. Sauce and company should feel confident about a continued famine in Week Seven.

Young New York offense overcomes elite Packers defense

Despite an inefficient first-half by the Jets offense, Breece Hall cranked out yards for the second straight game. Hall had 10 carries for 116 yards, with an eye-popping 34-yard touchdown. The trap-run play featured Nate Herbig and Alija Vera-Tucker pulling to set up a middle-cutback lane that ended in a Lambeau Leap into the arms of Jet fans.

Vera-Tucker does it all because he’s been moved multiple times due to injuries on the offensive line. Moving from right to left is no easy task but the transition seems smooth for the 2021 first-rounder. Hall spoke to Jets reporter Ethan Greenberg about the offensive line. “Those guys played like dogs today and they helped out me and MC tremendously. It’s a blessing to be behind those guys.”

A knock on Hall was that he doesn’t play up to his 40-time speed with the ball in his hand. Speed is significant but it isn’t everything. The consistent footwork and hip flexibility may carry the rookie throughout this season and beyond.

Zach Wilson wasn’t asked to do too much in Green Bay. His completion numbers were 10-18 for 110 yards. There wasn’t much going on offensively in the first half as the offense was held to just three points. Receiver Garrett Wilson hasn’t looked fully healthy since a sustained rib injury at home against Cincinnati.

Both Wilsons will soon face a Broncos defense that returns star safety Justin Simmons to the lineup. Zach Wilson didn’t fare well last year at Mile High but these aren’t the same old Jets. An improved offensive line and a reliable ground game are a recipe for comfort.

It’s been an excellent start for Gang Green. And Sunday’s victory over the Packers was the crown jewel to their positive opening month.