The New York Jets used to boast one of the most feared run defenses in the NFL. Now, running backs can't wait to face Gang Green.
Through four weeks, New York is giving up 172.8 yards a game on the ground, which ranks 31st in the league.
"It's absurd. We pride ouselves on that," Jets linebacker Bart Scott said Monday, according to CBSSports. "We know we can stop the run. "
The Jets have given up a league-high seven rushing touchdowns, including three Sunday against the San Francisco 49ers. The 49ers gained a ridiculous 245 yards rushing against the Jets and picked up 16 first downs on the ground.
“I’ve never given up so many rushing yards in my life,” Jets coach Rex Ryan said after the game Sunday, according to the team's website. “We can’t just say it’s poor tackling and this and that. There must be something to it, so we’re going to find out."
It's hard to explain the Jets' struggles, as defensive linemen Sione Pouha and Mike Devito, as well as linebackers David Harris and Bart Scott, among others, have been stout at stopping the run in the past.
The collective execution of the team has been incredibly poor, and it will need to shape up fast with the Houston Texans coming to town next Monday night.
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