Following an embarrassing performance on Monday Night Football, the embattled New York Jets head west to face the San Francisco 49ers. In an ironic twist of fate, the Jets’s final four games may be just as exciting as many anticipated prior to the season. Because although the team is not competing for a playoff birth, and have been utterly disappointing this season, all will be forgotten as a young Bryce Petty takes the field on Sunday. If the second year signal caller can prove to be a viable starting option for 2017, or even a potential franchise quarterback, the Jets can prioritize fixing a leaky secondary in the offseason. If Petty struggles, the Jets will likely seek alternative options. Either way, these last four games will be immensely important for Petty and the Jets. Here’s what to expect from Petty in game one of his month-long audition.
Previewing Bryce Petty’s Debut as Starting Quarterback
Throws Under Thirty-five Passes
Those expecting, or hoping, to see Bryce Petty throw the ball every play will be largely disappointed, and rightfully so. Look for Chan Gailey to establish the run early against the 49ers league worst run defense. The Jets are a run-first football team, possessing a great running back in Matt Forte. Changing their identity to accommodate a new quarterback would be a mistake. That being said, the passing game will be distinctly different, resembling nothing of the Ryan Fitzpatrick era.
Averages Over Ten Yards Per Passing Attempt
The Jets have fast, explosive, receivers at their disposal. Robby Anderson has an uncanny knack of getting behind the defense, Quincy Enunwa has proven to be a dynamic weapon besides Brandon Marshall, who remains one of the game’s best receivers. Finally, the Jets have a quarterback whose skill set allows them to maximize the talent of said receiving core. Under Ryan Fitzpatrick, the deep passing game was a precarious endeavor, at best. Petty, however, has an absolute gun for an arm. Look for the Jets to employ a much more vertical passing game with Petty under center. Consequently, look for many of Petty’s completions to be down the field.
Targets Robby Anderson over Six Times
From week one of the preseason, the chemistry between Bryce Petty and rookie Robby Anderson was evident. At times, this has worked favorably for the duo, as they have connected on two passes of over forty yards this season. Yet more often than not, Petty has zeroed in on his favorite target and made rather ill-advised throws. That’s problematic, especially when Quincy Enunwa and Brandon Marshall are so dynamic. Although Petty will spread the ball around more this game, his primary target will remain Anderson. Whether this is a benefit or a harm is yet to be seen.
Projected Stat Line
Progression is key. Don’t expect Petty to look like the second coming of Joe Montana, or even Joe Namath for that matter. The second-year quarterback remains a raw, developmental player. However, that doesn’t excuse Petty from stinking up the joint, either. If petty preforms decently every week, and gets better over time, that’ll be a success for the Jets. Petty will start favorably against the 49ers, leading the Jets to a victory over a far worse opponent.
