The annual Battle of New York wasn't much of a contest, as the New York Giants routed Rex Ryan's Jets, 26-3. For the second week in a row the Jets struggled on offense, managing to score just three points. It's only preseason but there are quite a few alarming signs that better be fixed sooner than later, or we might be looking at a 6-8 win season at best.
The defense looked good enough to keep the Jets in the game, as they gave up just six points to the Giants' first team offense. The offense, on the other hand, was a totally different story. While this is only preseason and the offensive scheme will look quite different come real football time, there are quite a few things that apparently haven't gotten fixed since last season.
RT Wayne Hunter once again looked like a turnstile on the offensive line. QB Mark Sanchez was sacked 3 times and the right tackle played a part in each one. Mark Sanchez, meanwhile, once again made a big mistake of his own, throwing right into coverage late in the second quarter. The result of his mistake was also quite familiar - another pick six, as the Giants took a commanding 13-0 lead, breaking the game wide open.
The Gang Green converted just 1 of 13 third down attempts (0 of 6 for the first team offense) and got stuffed on a fourth and short. After 41 plays in 2 preseason games, the starters have given up f5 sacks, managed just 7 first downs (one by penalty) and have yet to score. As a team, the Jets went more than 100 preseason plays without a touchdown.
On a positive note, rookie DE Quinton Coples continued having an impressive preseason, as he registered another sack. S LaRon Landry had an interception in the first half when the Jets' defense put pressure on Manning and forced a bad throw. RB/KR Joe McKnight continued where he left off last season, averaging 34 yards on two kickoff returns.
Next Sunday the Jets will host the Carolina Panthers (1-1) in the third preseason game. The kickoff is at 7PM ET.