Gang Green Nation
At a critical juncture of their Week 12 loss to the Baltimore Ravens, the Jets decided to go for it on fourth and two from their own 42. The Ravens had just taken a 10-7 lead in the third quarter. A stop would leave Baltimore with all of the momentum and with a great shot to take a two score lead that very likely would prove to be insurmountable given the Jets’ offensive issues.
The Jets were stopped. The Ravens did indeed capitalize on their short field and put up a touchdown that all but ended the game.
In the aftermath of the failed play, much attention was paid to the fact the Jets did not have Breece Hall in the game. On one of the highest leverage plays in the contest, the Jets didn’t even put their best offensive player on the field.
It is easy to understand the confusion. The Jets offense isn’t overloaded with talent at the skill positions, particularly with Garrett Wilson sidelined with an injury. In fact, I would say people don’t appreciate the magnitude of what’s happening here.
This was not an isolated incident. Against Baltimore, the Jets had thirteen offensive plays on either third down or fourth down. Hall was on the field for two of them. Davis was the running back for the other eleven.
A week ago against the Patriots Davis had 9 plays on third and fourth down. Hall had 5. Of Hall plays, 2 of them came on the Jets’ opening drive when they seemed to be executing scripted plays. The other 3 came in the fourth quarter when the Jets were trying to rally from multiple scores down. In neutral situations, Davis saw the playing time.
It seems like the Jets view Davis as their third down back at this point.
This is a concept that is easy to question. One of Breece Hall’s biggest strengths is the ability to make plays in space. That includes working as a receiver out of the backfield. On a team so lacking in offensive firepower at the skill positions, it’s difficult to understand him coming off the field on passing downs.
I don’t think there’s a problem with subbing out Breece Hall at times. Every back needs a break. It just should be done in a way to optimize the production you get. Breece’s weakest plays tend to come on runs between the tackles. There are moments where he is decisive and tough to bring down. There are also moments where he gets a tad too hesitant. I think Hall’s breaks would be better timed to coincide with early downs and power situations, where inside runs are on the menu.
These would be better points to get him a rest than in situations where his pass catching and playmaking abilities are most needed.
