NFL New York Jets: Should Offensive Coordinator Brian Schottenheimer Be Fired?

Following the New York Jets' 34-24 loss to the Oakland Raiders yesterday, many fans and reporters threw offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer under the bus for some questionable play calls.

Schottenheimer has been on the hot seat since midway through last season for his almost basic play calling and predictability. Many blamed him for the Jets' loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in the AFC Championship Game, and he is under scrutiny again following the team's first loss of the year.

The most vocal complaints came from Jets WR Santonio Holmes. According to ESPN New York, Holmes was dissatisfied with how the offense was run against Oakland after recording just one catch on two targets. "We have to open up the game plan a little bit and have a little bit more fun," Holmes told the media.

So is Schottenheimer the blame? Let's break down the player appearances (per Rich Cimini):

1. Dustin Keller: 64 snaps

2. Plaxico Burress: 63 snaps

3. Santonio Holmes: 62 snaps

4. Shonn Greene: 38 snaps

5. LaDainian Tomlinson: 36 snaps

Now, let's look at the total yardage per these five players (per box score):

1. Keller: 87 yards

2. Burress: 55 yards

3. Holmes: 19 yards

4. Greene: 106 yards (receiving and rushing)

5. Tomlinson: 154 yards (receiving and rushing)

Tomlinson, who is supposed to be the team's third-down back and backup running back, led the team in receiving and posted an additional six carries through the run game. Greene posted the second largest yard total as the starting running back, and led the team in receptions.

According to those statistics, Holmes may be correct about the offense. It seems as though it is based around short passes and screens, despite the fact that the team spent money on signing Holmes, Burress and Derrick Mason in the offseason.

But does that make Schottenheimer at fault? The Jets were without starting center Nick Mangold with an ankle injury, and were using three inexperienced starters on the offensive line. Quarterback Mark Sanchez took a beating all game against the tough Raiders defensive line, and wasn't receiving enough time to drop back and find a receiver.

This could also be a performance issue. Sanchez seemed rattled despite throwing for a career high in yards, but the defense also didn't play up to par against the Raiders offense. The game plan was forced to change when the Jets went down two touchdowns late in the game.

Whenever the offense fails, it seems as though Schottenheimer will be the scapegoat. However, his play calling has led the Jets to the AFC Championship two years in a row, and fans didn't say much when the team was winning.

So does "Schottty" deserve the criticism? That's your decision to make. Feedback is welcome.