Robert Saleh at a press conference after the New York Jets' loss to the Buffalo Bills on November 19, 2023. (AP)
In a Week 11 rematch against the Buffalo Bills, the New York Jets encountered another quarterback setback, benching Zach Wilson late in the third quarter during a 32-6 loss at Highmark Stadium. Despite the challenging circumstances, the move, prompted by Wilson’s ineffective performance, has Coach Robert Saleh contemplating the team’s quarterback situation for the upcoming game against the Miami Dolphins on Friday.
Coach Saleh’s Noncommittal Stance
After the game, Saleh, for the first time this season, remained noncommittal about Wilson’s future, stating that he would decide after reviewing the game tape on Monday. Potential replacements include journeyman Tim Boyle, who stepped in during the Jets’ 29-6 deficit against the Bills, or veteran Trevor Siemian from the practice squad.
Influence of Game Situation on Wilson’s Benching
In two months, the Jets (4-6) have transitioned from a season-opening Achilles injury to Aaron Rodgers to grappling with offensive struggles. Saleh explained that Wilson’s benching was influenced by the lopsided score, with hopes that a change might spark improvement. However, Wilson’s subpar performance against the Bills, completing only 7 of 15 passes for 81 yards with a touchdown and an interception, adds to a string of underwhelming displays since replacing Rodgers.
Saleh emphasized that the offensive challenges extended beyond Wilson, pointing to missed protections, dropped balls, and missed routes. The uncertainty surrounding the No. 2 quarterback’s fate gains significance considering the Jets’ long-term plan for Wilson to succeed Rodgers in the future.
Wilson’s Struggles and Frustration
Expressing frustration with his benching, Wilson acknowledged the team’s need to score and accepted the necessity for change after consecutive offensive struggles. In a marked departure from last season, he took accountability, stating, “We need to take accountability, and that starts with me – and I’m not getting it done.”
Team’s Unsatisfactory Performance
The short week leading up to the game against the Dolphins could impact Saleh’s decision, limiting practice reps for any potential replacement. Saleh deemed the Jets’ overall performance against the Bills unsatisfactory, as the team committed three turnovers, allowed six sacks, and went 0-for-11 on third down.
The normally stout defense also faced challenges, allowing Bills’ quarterback Josh Allen to throw for 275 yards and three touchdowns. Jets cornerback D.J. Reed acknowledged the difficulty of winning when all three phases of the game are underperforming.
Wilson’s Ranking and Offensive Struggles
As Wilson’s position hangs in the balance, ranked 30th out of 31 quarterbacks in Total QBR (30.7), the Jets confront offensive woes in various categories, including third-down efficiency and red zone performance. Wilson said, “It felt like one of those games where we couldn’t do anything. Everything felt really hard.”
