Scouting the New York Jets for Week 15

A look at the New York Jets from a tactics and tendencies point of view as the Baltimore Ravens host them in Week 15

Jets defense

Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

If we were in the 1970s to early 90s, the Jets’ defensive strength would be one to be lauded. This would be due to their strength with regards to stopping the run. They’ve allowed a league-best 3.0 yards per rushing attempt on the season, and are second in terms of rushing yards allowed. Sadly in 2019, this is no real basis to build your defense upon, and the Jets are 15th in terms of passing yards allowed.

It should be no surprise that the Jets have been among the league leaders in terms of blitz rate given that their defense is overseen by Gregg Williams. Williams has leaned heavily on the blitz throughout his coaching career, and this year has been no exception. The Jets have sent extra rushers on 38.2% of their defensive snaps, the 5th highest rate in the NFL. These extra rushers haven’t been too effective in terms of getting to the quarterback, as the Jets have amassed just 29 sacks at a rate of 5.7%. 22 teams have more sacks while 25 are taking quarterbacks down at a higher rate.

35% of the drives against the Jets end in a score, which isn’t too bad at all. It’s the 12th lowest rate in the league this year. But Williams charges have shown very little ability to take the ball away from offenses. They have only 16 takeaways and have ended only 8.9% of teams’ offensive drives with a turnover. This is the 5th lowest rate in the league.

Given their strength against the run, it is not surprising that teams are favoring passing against the Jets defense. They’ve seen a 60:40 pass to run ratio this season, with 58% of their plays coming against 11 personnel. Teams have passed on 70% of their plays when in 11, averaged 7.0 yards per attempt and picked up 15 touchdowns through the air.

The Jets have seen 12 (one back, two wide receivers and two tight ends) personnel on 20% of their plays, and teams have normally run the ball out of this look. But they have averaged 8.0 yards per attempt when they have passed, and this is an area that the Ravens may look to attack the Jets on Thursday. The Ravens line up in 12 in just under 20% of their offensive plays, and but pass 63% of the time and average 8.6 yards per pass attempt.

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