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Jets embarrass the Raiders 38-0
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What a difference a week makes for the New York Jets. Last week Gang Green played like a team going backwards in their overtime loss to the struggling Buffalo Bills. This week in the Jets 38-0 win over the Oakland Raiders, the team looked to be back to their physical, aggressive winning ways. While some fans are discounting the Jets win as the Raiders are one of the worst teams in the NFL, I would have loved to hear their perspective if this was a close game in the fourth quarter. A win is a win, and no better way to do it than in dominating fashion.
Offense
It was no secret that Gang Green wanted to establish the running game and wear down the Raiders defense. Not only did the Jets offense accomplish their goal, but they completely demoralized the Raiders defense by racking up 316 yards on the ground. The Jets offensive line completely dominated the line of scrimmage while running backs Thomas Jones and Shonn Greene did an excellent job finding holes and breaking tackles.
With the Jets so effective running the ball, the passing game took a back seat and rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez was just left to manage the game. While Sanchez did throw for one touchdown and run for another, he really was not asked to do much throughout the game.
One major note on the offensive side of the ball is the season ending injury that was suffered by running back Leon Washington. Leon left the game in the first quarter with a broken fibula. This is really a sad situation for Washington as he has been trying to negotiate a well-deserved new contract throughout the entire offseason. The Jets reportedly offered the All-Pro kick returner a contract averaging five million dollars a year, but Leon decided to play the season out and work on his deal at the end of the year. You will not meet a classier player than Leon Washington and my prayers go out for a speedy recovery.
Rookie running back Shonn Green replaced Washington and did an outstanding job carrying the ball gaining 144 yards on 14 carries with 2 touchdowns. The Jets have been very high on Greene and the rookie did not disappoint showing great explosiveness and the ability to shed tackles. It will be interesting to see how he is used in the game plans going forward.
Defense
The Jets defense led by linebacker Calvin Pace (3 sacks, 2 forced fumbles) absolutely manhandled the Oakland Raiders offense. The Raiders were held to total of 263 yards of total offense and were forced into four turnovers. It was evident that the Jets goal on defense was to stop the run and put substantial pressure on the quarterback. They were very successful at accomplishing both goals, pitching their first shutout in the Rex Ryan era.
One thing to keep an eye on from the defensive perspective is the health of Shaun Ellis and Bart Scott. Both players were banged up in the game against the Raiders, and with loss of Kris Jenkins, are desperately needed on the field to keep the defense solid.
Overall
This win was just what the doctor ordered for Gang Green; a dominating victory, where both sides of the ball played outstanding. The Jets have historically played horribly on the west coast, especially in Oakland, and it was great to see a solid performance. Now Gang Green prepares for the Miami Dolphins, a game that will seriously dictate the direction of both teams for the rest of the season.
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