Getty Image / Perry Knotts
The New York Jets are now 2-6 after a terrible 25-22 loss to the New England Patriots. The loss is as bad as any in recent team histroy, given the terrible opponent and the high hopes for the franchise this year.
A big culprit was once again the kicking game, as Greg Zuerlein missed four points worth of kicks. After the game, Jets interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich stood by his kicker that continues to cost the Jets.
Zuerlein had missed crucial field goals in the team’s last two games against the Steelers and Bills, both under 40 yards. While one was blocked, those kinds of misses are simply inexcusable in the NFL when kickers are better than ever.
There are solid kickers on the scrap heap every week, but the Jets elected to continue to roll with Zuerlein heading into Sunday’s clash against the Patriots.
It didn’t work out, to say the least. He missed an extra point and a chip shot field goal.
Greg Zuerlein has now missed five kicks for the Jets over his past three games
Week 6: Missed two field goals (32, 43)
Week 7: Missed one FG (35)
Today vs. Patriots: One missed FG (44), one missed PAT #Jetspic.twitter.com/oukk4wxu6v— John Breech (@johnbreech) October 27, 2024
This has been a huge pattern this year with Greg Zuerlein. He’s missed six kicks this year, the most in the NFL. They’ve been coming in meaningful spots, too.
Sept. 29: Zuerlein missed FG to end game, Jets lose 10-9
Oct. 14: Zuerlein misses 2 FG inside 45 yards, jets lose 23-20
Oct. 27: Zuerlein misses FG and PAT, jets lose 25-22
The worst season I’ve ever seen from a kicker and THE reason we are below .500
— tal (@sidd_f1nch) October 27, 2024
Why the Jets would continue to have this guy be their kicker is a total mystery. But, Ulbrich doesn’t even regret it.
Jeff Ulbrich on if he regrets sticking with Greg Zuerlein:
"No. I do not." pic.twitter.com/18dMnpPH5L
— Jets Videos (@snyjets) October 27, 2024
I understand not wanting to throw a player under the bus. But, Greg the Leg should’ve been cut immediately after the game. Ulbrich should have the respect for the other players in the locker room to say that he and the rest of management screwed up.