For the Jets, If It’s Not One Thing It’s Another

Dec. 23, 2012; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez (6) and head coach Rex Ryan stand with teammates during a moment of silence for the Sandy Hook tragedy before the game against the San Diego Chargers at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Debby Wong-USA TODAY Sports

There were some lessons to be learned on Sunday, from the Jets 27-17 loss at the hands of the Chargers. The score in this one was really not an indicator of how the game was played because it really wasn’t that close. The offense really could never get into a rhythm, as quarterback Greg McElroy was sacked 11 times, and hit several others. The game wasn’t pretty. But what did we learn? We learned how flawed this team really is. How do we know? Because we never get a complete effort from this team. If it’s not one squad on the team that has an issue, it’s another. But it’s always something.

This week, it was the offensive line. As the season had progressed to this point, one element the Jets were pointing to as making big strides was the offensive line. Don’t get me wrong, this was with good reason, as the running game had made huge strides. In recent weeks, the Jets have rushed for over 4 yards a carry, and been breaking off huge chunks of yardage. The pass protection had been improving, and critics were lauding the offensive line for finally grasping the gap-blocking scheme and making huge strides.

Then comes Sunday. The running game did nothing, averaging 3 yards per carry. They had some success early as they broke out to a lead, and the game was never a blow out, so there was no reason to get away from it. But, three yards per carry was all they could manage. And the pass protection? Pathetic, and you know what? That might be a kind way of putting it. 11 sacks? Are you kidding me? I have to think really hard about that game, to remember when Greg McElroy had a clean pocket. It didn’t happen very often, that’s for sure. The sacks, the hurries, the knockdowns, it was quite a welcome to the NFL part for Greg. How are the Jets supposed to evaluate their young quarterback when they have no running game, or pass protection? You can’t.

If it’s not one thing with this team, it’s another. Even if that “another” was previously a position of strength. What does that prove? That this team is very flawed.