Don’t give up first downs

During the Jets’ three-game winning streak, they allowed only 15 or fewer first downs. But in the most recent losses to the Dolphins and Bengals, the Jets gave up 22 and 18 first downs, respectively. The Jets need to force quick drives to keep the defense fresh, control time of possession and give the offense more opportunities to score points. 

For the season, the Jets rank 25th in first downs allowed (18.7 per game) and the Dolphins rank 27th in first downs converted (18), so neither team is better or worse at extending or ending drives. However, the Jets aren’t a good third-down defense – allowing teams to convert on 42.6 percent of their attempts (10th-worst).