Scoring points has been a rare occurrence for the New York Jets in the 2023 season. Their entire offensive strategy took a hit when Aaron Rodgers suffered a ruptured Achilles on the team’s fourth offensive snap of the season, and the Jets have struggled to bounce back.
In a season filled with offensive struggles, Week 15 added another chapter to the Jets’ issues. Zach Wilson, fresh off his impressive performance in Week 14, couldn’t make it through the first half against the Miami Dolphins due to injury. Initially reported as dehydration, it was later clarified as a head injury.
Regardless of the specifics, Wilson was absent for the final drive of the first half and beyond and was replaced by Trevor Siemian. Before exiting, Wilson put together a tough game, completing only 4-of-11 passes for 26 yards with one lost fumble.
Siemian didn’t fare much better, going 14-of-26 for 110 yards with two interceptions and a lost fumble. The result was a brutal 30-0 loss, with the Jets managing a mere 103 total yards against a Dolphins defense seeking revenge after a humiliating breakdown in Week 14 against the Tennessee Titans.
The Jets’ defense found itself in challenging situations throughout the game due to the offense’s struggles. Despite missing star wide receiver Tyreek Hill, Miami capitalized on big plays from wide receiver Jaylen Waddle and running back Raheem Mostert.
Waddle, in particular, showcased a big-time performance with eight catches for 142 yards and a touchdown. In contrast, the Jets’ leading receivers, Garrett Wilson and Xavier Gipson, each managed only 29 yards.
Garrett Wilson Addressed The Jets’ Offensive Woes
Wilson addressed the team’s offensive issues when questioned about Miami’s ability to scheme open receivers compared to the Jets after the game.
“I think they have a lot of pieces in their favor that make it easier to scheme. Tyreek goes down, they put Waddle in there and he goes for 150. And that’s, that’s the ball I grew up loving. But that’s not how it’s going to be. I gotta figure out how to be better, run better routes, be better in the meeting rooms, figure out how I can be involved early.”
Wilson’s response showed maturity and accountability for his on-field performance. While no one is placing blame solely on Wilson, his leadership in shouldering responsibility was evident.
In a situation where he could have criticized coaches and teammates for insufficient ball distribution, Wilson took the high road, highlighting why he is a cornerstone for the team’s future.