The New York Jets’ aspirations for the 2024 NFL season seem increasingly tenuous following a disheartening 31-6 defeat to the Arizona Cardinals in Week 10. The loss not only dropped the Jets to a 3-7 record but also underscored a season-long struggle to ignite any semblance of offensive fireworks under the leadership of veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
Offensive Woes Continue
The Jets' inability to generate impressive offensive numbers against the Cardinals was a glaring reminder of their ongoing issues. Managing only 207 yards throughout the game, the offense seemed to sputter and stumble, with Rodgers contributing a modest 151 passing yards. His 4.3 yards per pass attempt marks one of the lowest performances in his otherwise illustrious career, specifically the third-lowest when attempting at least 15 throws in a game.
Prolific receiver Davante Adams, who usually serves as a linchpin for Rodgers' offensive schemes, was held to a mere 31 receiving yards on 13 targets, highlighting a disconnect between the quarterback and his leading receiver. The Jets remain the solitary NFL team yet to score at least 25 points in any game this season, a testament to their offensive shortcomings.
Defensive Struggles Exacerbate Situation
The defeat to Arizona wasn't solely an offensive collapse. Defensively, the Jets allowed the Cardinals’ offense to operate with nearly impunity, surrendering 7.1 yards per play and 28 first downs. This porous performance pushed the Jets further down the pecking order, putting them two games behind the Denver Broncos for the coveted AFC seventh playoff spot.
The defensive inefficiencies were stark against a Cardinals team that, albeit talented, shouldn’t have found itself navigating through the Jets' defense with such apparent ease. The broader implications for the Jets' season are troubling as their defensive unit showed little resistance, fraying under pressure.
Rodgers' Season Under the Microscope
For a quarterback of Aaron Rodgers' stature, the current situation is far from ideal. Averaging 225.8 passing yards per game this season with a passer rating of 86.8, Rodgers' numbers reflect a player searching for rhythm and consistency. His 6.4 passing yards per attempt aligns closely with a team struggling to find explosive plays or execute extended drives.
Rodgers, who returned in 2023 after overcoming an Achilles tear, represents a talented veteran attempting to steer an embattled ship. When asked about the negative aspects of the team’s performance, Rodgers responded candidly: "Not really, not for the negative, no. Not really." Despite the challenges, his belief in a potential turnaround seems unwavering, as implied in his brief yet hopeful "I think so, yeah" when considering brighter prospects ahead.
Season at a Crossroads
With 17 points per game this season and a negative expected points added per play at -0.07, the Jets find themselves at a crossroads, needing immediate changes to salvage their season. The current trajectory necessitates introspection and adjustment if they are to mount a late playoff push.
For now, the Jets' faithful can only watch and wait, hoping for signs of the offensive rejuvenation that can complement a defense struggling to regain its footing. As the season progresses, the Jets must find answers quickly; otherwise, a promising campaign could be lost, overshadowed by the disappointments of a season that began with high hopes and fanfare.