The New York Jets, whose season began with high expectations inspired by Aaron Rodgers, experienced a significant downturn on Sunday, culminating in a disheartening defeat to the Miami Dolphins. The 30-0 loss at Hard Rock Stadium marked the continuation of the Jets’ longest active playoff drought across major sports leagues, now standing at 13 consecutive years.
The game showcased a dismal performance by the Jets, with cornerback D.J. Reed characterizing it as a “good, old ass whooping.” The team was outplayed, being outgained 290-103, and wide receiver Allen Lazard bluntly admitted, “They out-schemed us, and they out-efforted us.”
Quarterback Zach Wilson faced a particularly challenging day, enduring four sacks on 15 dropbacks and leaving the game with a concussion in the second quarter. Trevor Siemian stepped in as the fourth different starter for the Jets, raising the possibility of him continuing in that role if Wilson remains in concussion protocol for the next game against the Washington Commanders.
With a record of 5-9, the Jets secured their eighth consecutive losing season, currently the longest slump in the NFL. The defeat also seems to eliminate any hope of a miraculous return by Aaron Rodgers, who could be medically cleared but has emphasized the importance of playoff implications for his decision to play.
In a span of three hours, the Jets witnessed one quarterback sidelined with a concussion and dashed the comeback hopes of another. Coach Robert Saleh, whose record dropped to 16-32, declined to speculate on Rodgers’ potential return this season.
The season, which began with Super Bowl aspirations, took a drastic turn on the fourth play when Rodgers suffered a left Achilles rupture. Despite the initial optimism, the Jets couldn’t sustain their competitiveness, leaving Rodgers with no opportunity for a heroic comeback.
Cornerback Sauce Gardner acknowledged the team’s missed opportunity to potentially bring Rodgers back and expressed disappointment in falling short of winning games.
The Jets’ struggles were evident from the start, being outgained 197-4 in the first half. Wilson’s early strip sack set the tone for a challenging game, and the Dolphins capitalized on the turnover to secure an early touchdown.
Saleh attributed the offensive woes to the line, emphasizing the need for improvement. The Jets’ offensive line, facing its 11th different combination, allowed six sacks and 14 quarterback hits. Left tackle Mekhi Becton admitted to communication issues and self-inflicted mistakes.
The team’s top playmaker, wide receiver Garrett Wilson, had a limited impact, with only three catches for 29 yards. Frustrations were evident on the sideline, but Wilson took responsibility for improving his performance and finding ways to contribute to victories.
As the second half unfolded, the Jets appeared drained and lacked energy, contributing to a lackluster performance. Reed observed a decline in momentum and emotion among the players, reflecting the team’s overall disappointment in the game.
