With the first play of his NFL career, Sam Darnold threw a pick-six to Lions’ defensive back Quandre Diggs. But, he proved his resilience by leading the Jets to a 48-18 victory in Detroit. Last week I suggested that Darnold’s reactions to mistakes would define his NFL career — here, Darnold showed that failure does not faze him. Following the terribly misjudged pick-six, Darnold chuckled off the mistake and threw for 198 yards with two touchdowns; more impressively, he completed 76.2% of his passes. Darnold had a promising game and looks to improve against the Miami Dolphins in Week 2.
It would be foolish to only credit Sam Darnold for the victory; all sides of the ball contributed in major ways: Isaiah Crowell and Bilal Powell combined for 162 rushing yards, Andre Roberts scored a punt-return touchdown, and the defense intercepted five passes (yes, you read that right). Even the Jets fans, led by legend Fireman Ed, were chanting louder than the Detroit residents. For once, everything went right for the Jets. Before the 3rd quarter even ended, the Jets had set a franchise record for most post scored in an away game. If the Jets can replicate some of this success throughout the season, they might compete for a playoff spot.
Darron Lee fields an interception (via Getty Images)
Linebacker Darron Lee stepped up in a major way. The 20th overall selection in the 2016 NFL Draft caught two interceptions, and took one home for a touchdown. He also led the team with 7 total tackles. Lee responded to harsh criticism he received during the summer from former Jet Bart Scott, who questioned “his willingness to play the position”, adding that Lee “[seems] a little plush”. Lee let his play speak for himself, and cited film study as a catalyst for the two interceptions. While Lee’s first two seasons with the Jets have not been spectacular thus far, hopefully this performance is a taste for the future. Lee is 23 years-old, and will only improve with more experience.
Lee was not the only promising player on the defensive side. Second year safety Jamal Adams was ferocious against the run and found his first interception late in the game, which Adams claimed would be the “first of many more to come”. Though Jamal is younger than many players on the team, he acts as the heart and soul of the defense. His fiery passion for football is matched by no other. Todd Bowles has prioritized finding healthy locker-room personalities in his personnel acquisitions since he became head coach (by trading Sheldon Richardson, cutting Muhammad Wilkerson, etc.), which has formed a fresh identity for the Jets. In addition to Jamal Adams, players like Leonard Williams, Trumaine Johnson, and Avery Williamson will make the Jets’ defense exciting to watch. Watch out for “New Jack City”!
The New York Jets start the season 1-0, and there is immense hope for Gang Green.
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