ORCHARD PARK — In last week’s loss to the Vikings, the Jets’ inability to score in the red zone was a major factor.
At Minnesota, the Jets scored only one touchdown on six red-zone trips, settling for an excessive number of field goals. However, the coaches stated that there is no need for alarm.
“At the bye week, we were 13th in the NFL in red zone offense, which isn’t… you always want to be in the top five and all that, but it wasn’t a problem,” said head coach Robert Saleh. “Unfortunately, there are so few opportunities in the red zone from week to week that it is the most variable statistic, as one terrible game can ruin your entire statistical standings. Therefore, you must adhere to your basics, your approach, and your practice routines. Can you practice it more? You could look at it the other way, we were close to having a 4-of-6 day, but it just didn’t work out and you have to give that team credit as well. “Minnesota did a great job in the red zone, but I don’t think there’s any reason to panic just yet.”
On six red-zone trips, Gang Green scored only one touchdown against the Vikings.
The Jets’ red-zone offense is presently tied for 26th in the NFL, converting 48.6% of the time. Sunday’s matchup against the Bills, who rank third in the NFL in red-zone defense, will be challenging.
Saleh stated that the Jets would not alter their practice schedule to address red-zone issues because, according to him, they practice red-zone situations more than any other team in the league.
Mike LaFleur, the offensive coordinator for the Vikings, stated that the offense was slightly off versus them.
LaFleur stated, “We were able to go inside the opponent’s 20-yard line, but it was an accumulation of errors, so we have to rectify that as coaches; the execution was just slightly off.” Even a 1-for-2 performance in the red zone is insufficient when you’re 1-for-6. You’re going to kick field goals, but you’re going to lose games against excellent teams in this league.”
The Jets promoted Marcell Harris from the practice squad to the active roster for the game.
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