In light of the Jets' recent struggles, a lot of the blame has been placed on QB Ryan Fitzpatrick, who has thrown nine interceptions over the last two games. However, the rest of the team doesn't share that mindset. WR Brandon Marshall defended his quarterback in his media availability Wednesday, saying that the receiving corps is responsible for a handful of his picks. On Thursday, offensive coordinator Chan Gailey stepped to the plate.
"This is a we thing," he said. "I can pin some blame on me, having something better for him to go to in certain situations, but communication is the key for us to be on the same page all the time. That's where the we part comes in. We all have to be on the same page and do a better job of putting Ryan not in a bad situation sometimes."
The Jets defensive line, one of the most talented groups in the NFL, kicked off the season with a bang, sacking Bengals QB Andy Dalton seven times. Since, the unit has combined for four sacks. Defensive coordinator Kacy Rodgers understands the challenges the 6'5", 240-pound Ben Roethlisberger presents. However, the Steelers' offensive line is a little banged up — starting T Marcus Gilbert (ankle) and backup OLs Ryan Harris (shin) and Cody Wallace (knee) did not practice Wednesday and Thursday.
"As I look at our defensive line and our unit up front, we're very pleased with those guys right now," Rodgers said. "As a coach you always want more, but right now we're pleased with them and everybody they play with is an NFL-caliber player or they wouldn't be there. Their job is to go in there and do the best they can against whoever is in front of them."
