New York Jets: 3 Things to Know

The New York Jets are 2-4 entering Sunday’s AFC East game against Miami, but their record does not fully explain the matchup. New York has a strong defensive foundation, an efficient veteran quarterback and a changing group of offensive playmakers.

1. The Jets’ defense remains their clearest advantage.

New York allows 20.3 points per game, seventh best in the NFL, and only 308.0 yards. The Jets have 17 sacks, tied for fifth, while Miami has allowed Malik Willis to be sacked 14 times. That contrast can determine the game. If the Dolphins fall behind the chains and abandon Ollie Gordon II, New York can turn the afternoon into a series of passing downs.

Miami’s counter is visible on film. New England ran 36 times for 148 yards in its 26-19 victory over the Jets. The Dolphins rushed for 217 against Cincinnati. Gordon’s volume, Willis’ designed runs and heavier personnel can reduce New York’s rush opportunities.

2. Geno Smith is efficient, but pressure can change him.

Smith has completed 68.9% of his passes for 1,336 yards, seven touchdowns and one interception. His first interception came at New England while he was under pressure and attempting to throw the ball away. He also has been sacked 19 times.

Miami has only four sacks, last in the league, so this is a test for Jeff Hafley’s pressure plan. The Dolphins cannot simply wait for four rushers to win. Simulated pressure, linebacker movement and carefully selected slot blitzes could force Smith to speed up without leaving the secondary isolated.

3. New York has a second young receiving threat.

Garrett Wilson remains the Jets’ leading receiver with 35 catches, 418 yards and three touchdowns. Rookie Omar Cooper Jr. changed the picture at New England, catching six passes for 103 yards and a 48-yard touchdown in his return from injured reserve.

That development complicates Miami’s coverage plan. Chris Johnson may see more of Cooper in the slot, while JuJu Brents and Jason Marshall Jr. work against Wilson and the outside rotation. Former Dolphins kicker Jason Sanders is another meaningful figure after making four field goals last week.

The Jets are not explosive in every phase. They average 18.7 points, rank last in red-zone touchdown rate and failed to score a touchdown on three red-zone trips at New England. Miami’s opportunity is to force field goals, protect the ball and make New York sustain long drives.