New York Jets, Mangini's Bye-Week Tasks

Jets Fans,

It's safe to say the Jets have come quite a way since Game One against the Dolphins.  Favre seems to have settled into a groove with the Jets best receiver in Laveranues Coles, the defense looks sharper at diagnosing plays, and every week the offensive line has more and more chemistry.  So, where does Eric Mangini need to pay particular attention in this bye week?

The Jets have a few major concerns, and as a team with many new faces, their offensive line play and defensive front seven need to step up. 

On the offensive side of the ball, this is now a team that can strike fear into opponents.  Brett Favre definitely has the ability to throw the long ball, and they have a couple guys that can beat defenders deep. 

Most fans already know about Coles's speed, but the guy that should start seeing the ball more is Dustin Keller.  He is part of the "new breed" of tight ends in the league; a 240+ lb tight end that can burn almost any linebacker in the game. 

This can definitely start causing defensive mismatches.  In order for this to work however, the offensive line needs to keep showing improvement at picking up blitzes and maintaining blocks.  Favre needs to be able to sit in the pocket and let plays develop.  Don't make him throw the ball before he's ready, or there will be a lot of turnovers.

Defensively, there are a lot of new faces, all of which seem to have some major potential.  The scariest part about the defense is their cornerbacks.  There is no doubt that Darrelle Revis and Dwight Lowery have a ton of skill and potential, but they have one season of NFL experience between the two of them.  This puts a lot of strain on the other guys, in particular, the front seven. 

The front needs to get pressure on the quarterback this year.  There are a few guys that should help in this cause.  The Jets are playing two former defensive ends at outside linebacker (Calvin Pace and Vernon Gholston), who show the ability to get to the QB. 

The last piece of this defensive puzzle is Kris Jenkins.  In terms of ability, he is one of, if not the best, defensive tackle in the game.  However, he needs to show the ability to stay on the field.

Priority one for Mangini: work on picking up blitz packages.

Priority two: find ways to get to the QB

Priority three: keep Jenkins on the field, even if it means giving him some rest during games

The Jets definitely have a lot of potential, but in the NFL chemistry is key.  Let's hope that Coach Mangini can find a way to make them come together.