New York Jets: How Do You Stop Sammy Watkins?

Oct 19, 2014; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills wide receiver

Sammy Watkins

(14) catches the game tying touchdown during the second half against the Minnesota Vikings at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Buffalo beats Minnesota 17 to 16. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

Let’s talk a bit about the game Sunday. The Jets play host to the Buffalo Bills, as we all know. C.J. Spiller is out. Fred Jackson is out. That takes care of most of the weapons on the Bills. Except for one.

Sammy Watkins.

The rookie that everyone wanted to draft, now everybody fears, except for the Bills. Sammy Watkins. He had a breakout game last week, with nine catches for 122 yards and two touchdowns. Let’s review his performance last week.

Here is a look at Watkins’ first reception on Sunday, good for fifteen yards. He came out of the slot on the right side, going untouched, and as you can see in the photo, mismatched against a linebacker. There is no way any linebacker is going to be able to stay with Sammy Watkins, he makes the catch, and goes for the aforementioned 15 yards.

With the speed of Sammy Watkins, it is understandable that defenders do not want to get beaten deep. Watkins is lightening fast, so it would not be tough for him to win the battle downfield, as he does in this game as well. But, leaving a huge cushion doesn’t help anyone. Look at the example above. The cornerback is leaving a seven yard cushion, which really doesn’t stop Watkins from doing anything.

Watkins has the speed to run by anyway. But this time, he runs him off, turns and makes the eight yard reception. So Watkins burns his man on a comeback route, as opposed to the in route on the previous page.

And Watkins can beat you deep, as seen on this 26 yard touchdown. The defender didn’t leave much of a cushion here, maybe 3 yards. But, if you notice in the circle, he goes into a backpedal right off of the snap. He makes no contact with Watkins at all. Watkins gives him a double move, and the touchdown pass looks easy.

Oct 12, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan on the sidelines during the fourth quarter against the Denver Broncos at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

So, what is the next move, Rex Ryan? How do you stop this Watkins guy?

Well, the first thing is you have to disrupt his route. Within the five yards, you have to move him off of his spot. The defensive back and/or linebacker have to not only get in his face, and not give him a deep cushion, but they have to get physical with him. The rule for making contact within five yards is there, use it! If the Jets just let him run free, Watkins will have a head of steam every time he makes a reception, and burn the Jets, big time.

Oct 12, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Denver Broncos wide receiver

Demaryius Thomas

(88) carries the ball defended by New York Jets cornerback

Darrin Walls

(30) during the fourth quarter of their NFL football game at MetLife Stadium. The Broncos defeated the Jets 31-17. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports