Evan lists which Jets concerns are real, and which are 'fugazi'
After a full 24 hours to digest what happened in the Jets’ season-opening loss, Evan decided to open Wednesday’s show by addressing what concerns about Gang Green are real, and which are fugazi.
First, the real concerns, and Evan started with the Jets’ defensive front, which was beat at the point of attack consistently by the 49ers offensive line, and backup running back Jordan Mason ran for 147 yards.
“I am deeply concerned about this defensive line,” Evan said. “Haason Reddick isn’t gonna save stopping the run, but he’s gonna allow a pass rush, something the Jets had none of Monday night, and something they actually got consistently last year without blitzing.
“When I look at the talent of the defensive line...if I’m being fair, that’s the talent on the roster, and that’s not that good...I think that’s a fair concern coming out of Week 1.”
Another real concern for Evan resides on the sideline and Robert Saleh, who he does not believe can out-coach or out-scheme the better head coaches in the AFC, who will likely be in New York’s way should the Jets make the playoffs.
“They may be fine on Sunday against Brian Callahan...and they may be fine against Jerod Mayo two weeks later,” Evan said. “I don’t trust Robert Saleh against Andy Reid...I don’t trust Robert Saleh against these elite, big-time head coaches, and I think Monday was a preview of that.”
As for the fugazi concerns, Evan listed Aaron Rodgers, who he believes looked good for Week 1 with the little chances he had, and the excitement about Rodgers would have likely been higher had the defense and untimely turnovers allow him to have more time on the field. Also, the protection in front of Rodgers is not something that Evan is sweating after one blowout loss.
“Breece Hall got shut down on Monday night, but overall, I thought the offensive line pass protected Aaron Rodgers very well,” Evan said. “They didn’t open up a lot of holes for Breece Hall, but this is the first game for an offensive line with a lot of talent - and a lot of injury questions, I get it - but they’re looking how to play together. John Simpson, Tyron Smith, Alijah Vera-Tucker has barely played the last two years because of the injuries he’s dealt with. I am not overly concerned about the offensive line protecting Aaron Rodgers and opening up holes for Breece Hall.”
