Key Storylines for Broncos vs. Jets London Showdown Sunday
The upcoming showdown in London between the Denver Broncos and New York Jets promises to be a pivotal moment for both teams. As they prepare for this clash, key storylines are emerging that could define the game’s outcome.
New York Jets Offense Seeking Improvement
The Jets’ offensive struggles have been glaring throughout the season. They are averaging 22.4 points per game, the second-highest for a winless team after five games in NFL history. However, their defense has been a significant factor in their winless start, allowing 31.4 points and 347.4 yards per game.
Remarkably, the Jets have not forced a single turnover this season. This absence of takeaways marks a unique feat in NFL history, as they become the first team since 1950 to start a season 0-5 without securing a turnover, as per NFL Research. This has notably hindered the team’s chances of winning, especially when their offense has struggled.
Struggles of Quarterbacks
Quarterback Justin Fields has shown moments of brilliance, with a passer rating over 100 and no interceptions. However, his record is concerning. Fields is winless in 26 career games when his team allows over 20 points, the worst mark among quarterbacks since 1970, given a minimum of 10 starts. The Jets, unlike other teams, have found it challenging to pressure opposing quarterbacks, recording only three sacks in the last four games.
Ground Attack and Defensive Challenges
The Jets offer a formidable ground game, ranking third in the NFL with 144.4 rushing yards per game. Yet, their defensive performance has consistently reversed the game script against them. They are yielding an average of 140.4 rushing yards per game, indicating a lack of balance in their overall gameplay.
Star Players in the Spotlight
Garrett Wilson stands out as the primary weapon for the Jets. He has accumulated 33 receptions for 382 yards and four touchdowns, leading his team and ranking among the league’s best. Fields excels when targeting Wilson, boasting a passer rating of 125.3 when connecting with him.
However, Fields must tread carefully against Broncos cornerback Patrick Surtain II, who has significantly limited Wilson’s effectiveness in past matchups. In three games against Surtain, Wilson has only been targeted seven times, resulting in three receptions for 34 yards. Surtain’s defensive skills include one interception and two pass break-ups, indicating the need for Fields to explore secondary options.
Secondary Options for Fields
- Mason Taylor has recorded 20 receptions for 175 yards.
- Jeremy Ruckert, another reliable target, has eight receptions for 72 yards and one touchdown.
- Tyler Johnson follows as the next leading receiver but only has 63 yards.
The Jets face a challenging path as they look to improve their record in this London showdown against the Broncos. With crucial storylines and player performances at the forefront, the matchup is poised to deliver excitement for fans and a test of resilience for both teams.
