New York Jets’ Week 4 Loss To Denver Broncos Raises Alarms About Aaron Rodgers-Led Offense

   

Just recently, Aaron Rodgers and the New York Jets fell to the Denver Broncos during their Week 4 matchup. This led ESPN to raise alarm on the how the offense is run under the superstar quarterback.

In a disappointing matchup, the Jets fell to the Broncos with a score of 10-9 at MetLife Stadium, leaving them with a 2-2 record for the season. The Jets struggled offensively, failing to score a touchdown, which marked a rare occurrence for a Rodgers-led offense. Despite a strong defensive performance that limited the Broncos to just 186 net yards, the Jets could not capitalize on their opportunities, converting only 4 of 17 third downs and going scoreless in the red zone.

New York Jets, Aaron Rodgers
Sep 29, 2024; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) warms up before the game against the Denver Broncos at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

The first half was largely uneventful, with the Jets leading 6-0 at halftime thanks to two field goals from Greg Zuerlein. However, the game turned when Broncos quarterback Bo Nix threw an 8-yard touchdown pass to Courtland Sutton, giving Denver a 7-6 lead. Rodgers responded with a drive that resulted in a field goal, but the Broncos reclaimed the lead with a 47-yard field goal by Wil Lutz.

In the final moments, the Jets had a chance to secure a win, but Zuerlein’s 50-yard field goal attempt went wide right. Rodgers acknowledged the team’s mental mistakes and poor execution, citing missed opportunities and a lack of sharpness compared to previous weeks.

New York Jets, Aaron Rodgers
Sep 29, 2024; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) during warm ups before the game against the Denver Broncos at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

The Jets’ most recent loss to Denver highlighted the way New York runs its offense through Rodgers. This is detailed by Rich Cimini in his NFL analysis for ESPN.

Should the Jets be worried about their QB Aaron Rodgers-led offense? This was a performance out of 2023, which is the unkindest thing you could say about the Jets’ offense. This was a complete mess, from Rodgers (24-of-42, 225 yards) to the offensive line (five sacks) to the lack of discipline (10 penalties). It was only the fifth time in Rodgers’ career that his offense failed to generate a touchdown, including the playoffs.

They faced a formidable defense in rainy conditions, but the Jets failed to mount any consistent threat. They made no adjustments and were a step behind all day. Rodgers was also limping late with a possible left leg injury, though he finished the game. After the game, Rodgers acknowledged that both legs were “banged up,” though he said he’d be fine.

The Jets are grappling with offensive struggles, particularly in the wake of their narrow loss to the Broncos. Despite Rodgers’ leadership, the team has failed to find the end zone, converting only 4 of 17 third downs and going scoreless in the red zone. Rodgers acknowledged errors in execution and mental lapses affecting performance.

New York Jets, Aaron Rodgers
Sep 19, 2024; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) talks to running back Breece Hall (20) during warmups before a game against the New England Patriots at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

With a pivotal matchup against the Minnesota Vikings on the horizon, the Jets must address these issues to regain momentum and improve their season outlook. Immediate adjustments are crucial for their success moving forward as the season progresses.

New York Jets, Aaron Rodgers
Sep 19, 2024; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh hugs quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) after a touchdown by running back Breece Hall (not pictured) during the second quarter against the New England Patriots at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images