Same. Old. Jets.
And so goes the saying after every season that ends without the Vince Lombardi trophy in Woody Johnson's hands. A normality, and usual feeling and/or saying for every New York Jets fan in the nation.
However, after the debacle in which this season ended, it leaves an unusually bitter taste rather than that normal flavoring of disappointment. This year, as has been so thoroughly discussed and analyzed, the Jets imploded more so than were defeated. We all witnessed the makings of the perfect tragedy with superstar captains quitting mid-game, coaches not having "the pulse" of the team, the typical blame of the general manager, the quintessential criticism of the offensive coordinator and finally the cherry on top, the on-going quarterback debate come together to destroy the Jets season.
Now that a few days have passed on the tragic Jets season, I find myself still in amazement how a team that was once relevant, and had the opportunity to win this city from the Giants, fell so hard, and so fast.
As far as the blaming and pointing of the fingers go, I truly believe that everyone is to blame. Everyone had a hand in this mess from Rex Ryan all the way down to Mark Sanchez on the field. After the constant boasting and braggadocio demonstrated by the new culture of the organization, a big slice of humble pie was due.
The New York Jets will need to improve in many areas if the hope to improve. One of the main reasons I believe we are in this position is due to the lack of leadership. Ryan has already announced that he doesn't believe in captains, and doesn't plan on naming any next year (Which is a huge cover up for giving up a "C" to Santonio Holmes). However, it was guys like Alan Faneca, Tony Richardson, Jericho Cotchery, Thomas Jones, and Brad Smith that helped build the chemistry needed to make those runs.
From week one, this team had no identity, and most importantly, no character.
And that began with the offense. What were we this year?
The closest answer - a team that identified with the term, "three and out".
The closest answer - a team that identified with the term, "three and out".
And yes, Brian Schottenheimer, we're looking at you.
Which of course brings us to Mark Sanchez. Sanchez, who is so often debated, Alex Rodriguez probably wishes football season was during the summer. Listen, as per tweets here at the DP, I get as frustrated with Sanchez as the next person. However, in his defense, it's hard to throw the guy to the wolves when he's always on his back (ahem, Wayne Hunter) and has no chemistry with his receivers. There is a reason receiving-core holdover, Dustin Keller, lead the team in receptions and yards this year.
Sanchez is entering year four as a starter in this league, and quite honestly, it is the make or break year for his career. And to be honest, I'm still not sure how much he has progressed since his rookie season. I've never quite had that moment with Sanchez where I believed it's clicked. And because of that, we all continue to debate constantly over his future.
In football, it begins with your quarterback when it comes to leadership, and if the fans don't buy it, rest assured, the players haven't bought in as well.
In football, it begins with your quarterback when it comes to leadership, and if the fans don't buy it, rest assured, the players haven't bought in as well.
Santonio Holmes? Character? No chance after last Sunday. And yes, Holmes, in my book, you are a quitter.
And of course, a bit (to say the least) of the arrogance displayed by Rex Ryan has caused such an atmosphere. Bragging about having tips on how to beat the Patriots, and willing to offer advice to do so... not a smart idea. Especially when you go 0-2 against the Pats for the season.
More humble pie? Yes, please.
As the playoffs are set to begin and this city is blue with excitement once again, Jets fans are at home thinking about what could have been, and what could be. The draft is coming up, and there are plenty of holes to fill on this team, and of course the 800lb gorilla in the off-season room, Peyton Manning might be out there.
I for one will look at this season as one this team, especially Rex Ryan, needed. It is time to cease the excessive arrogance and attempt to be the rehabilitation center for talented malcontents. Building around character-driven guys and holding players accountable is what got us to the brink of a Super Bowl game the last two years.
It's time to stop the talking, and start delivering.
We're tired of same. old. Jets.