Team Grades: Vick, Jets Shock The Pittsburgh Steelers
By Tyson Rauch
Just when you thought it was time to bury Rex Ryan and his New York Jets, the team goes out and beats the Pittsburgh Steelers 20-13. The victory, which was the Jets second of the season, dispelled all odds as the Steelers (6-4) were flying high coming off of a 3 game winning streak. Gang Green now gets a chance to breathe as the team gets a much needed bye in week 11.
Offense Grade: A
The New York Jets had a diversified attack on Sunday as both the running game and passing attack contributed to the win. Chris Ivory led the team with 51 rushing yards while wide receiver T.J. Graham made a huge impact play in the first quarter with a 67-yard touchdown grab.
Percy Harvin continues to grow into the offense as he was featured as a receiver and a running back. At this point it is safe to say that Harvin is passing his audition as a New York Jet.
Defense Grade : A
Sunday’s game was the Jaiquawn Jarrett show as the third year safety compiled 10 tackles, a sack, two interceptions, and a fumble recovery. Jarrett’s play inspired the defense as the Jets totaled 4 turnovers on the day which was more than the unit had for the entire season (3).
The defensive line did a solid job of generating pressure on Ben Roehtlisberger while the revamped secondary held their own against a top flight passing game. Hats off to cornerbacks Marcus Williams and Phillip Adams for their coverage on receivers Antonio Brown, Martavis Bryant, and Markus Wheaton.
Quarterback Grade: A
Mike Vick returned to his roots on Sunday as he passed for 132 yards and 2 touchdowns while running for 39. Vick remains a lethal threat when he escapes the pocket and his arm strength continues to keep the defense honest. Michael managed the offense very effectively and made several exciting plays that inspired his teammates. It is evident that the veteran quarterback should remain the starter as the team heads into the bye.
Special Teams Grade: C
Not a great day for special teams as the unit’s inconsistency kept the Pittsburgh Steelers in the game. Punter Ryan Quigley continues to shank punts at the most inopportune times while the coverage units tend to come up short in crucial situations. Nick Folk had a rare miss, but ended the game 2/3.
Quality effort
The New York Jets backs were against the wall as most had written the team off following an 8-game losing streak. MetLife Stadium was half full of Pittsburgh fans yet Gang Green came out with a very aggressive and passionate effort. The Jets attacked on both sides of the football and refused to lose when the times got tough. A ton of credit has to be given to head coach Rex Ryan as he rallied his troops in a convincing effort. Things should be very quiet this week at Florham Park and at this point that is a not a bad thing.
For more Jets news and updates, visit Jets Central.
Tyson Rauch is a freelance writer covering all things NFL. His work can be found on Examiner.com.
