RUN THE BALL
The Jets’ rushing attack finally broke out despite a three-point loss to the Bills on Monday night. RB Breece Hall finished with 113 yards on 18 carries (6.3 yards per attempt). But gaining rushing yards against the Steelers will be a much bigger challenge. Pittsburgh’s defense is fourth in rushing yards allowed per game (85.5). Right tackle Morgan Moses (knee) returned to the offensive line last week, but he was clearly less than 100 percent. Gang Green will need their O-line to have another big night if they want to get a victory on the road.
PROTECT THE RODGERS
The key to the Jets offense is protecting Aaron Rodgers. That’s why it’s no wonder that this three-game losing streak coincides with their inability to keep Rodgers clean in the pocket. In losses to the Broncos, Vikings and Bills, Rodgers was sacked 11 times and hit 30 times. The task doesn’t get any easier this week as Rodgers will face Steelers LB TJ Watt on the other side of the line. In six games this season, Watt has 4.5 sacks. This week, Jets players and coaches called Watt a “game destroyer,” which he truly is. This is why it will be essential to run the rushing attack and have Rodgers get the ball out quickly.
GENERATING PRESSURE
The Jets’ pass rush this season has been hit or miss. They’re tied for third in the league in sacks (20), but they’ve only recorded five sacks in their last three games. It appears Russell Wilson will get the start against the Jets, which will be his first of the season after sitting out the first six games with a calf injury. Although he doesn’t have the mobility of Justin Fields, Wilson is the better passer. If the Jets’ pass rush fails to put consistent pressure on Wilson, it could be a long night for their secondary, which will be without cornerbacks DJ Reed and Michael Carter II.
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