If anyone within the New York Jets organization finds them self on the hot seat this offseason, it could very well be offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer. The Jets defense is generally solid and has received little criticism since Rex Ryan’s arrival, but Mark Sanchez and the offense has been a different story. Some of New York’s struggles have been the result of relying on a young quarterback, but a greater portion can be blamed on Schottenheimer’s play-calling.
According to Santonio Holmes, the AFC Championship on Sunday was no exception. Holmes seemed extremely annoyed when the Star-Ledger asked him about being sidelined for the first few plays of the game against the Steelers.
“Ask Coach Schottenheimer what happened; he’ll explain everything to you,” Holmes said. “I don’t have the answer to that. We’ve got to put together the plays that we’ve been running against these guys, what’s been working for us. We kind of got away from our game plan in the game, and it forced us to go do what we have to do to survive.”
Holmes’ lack of involvement early was likely the result of the Jets game plan to try to establish the run and protect Sanchez. Still, when you have a talent like Holmes, who scored fourth quarter touchdowns in the Jets last two playoff games, it’s your job as a coordinator to get him involved in the offense early — even if it means taking some chances with your young quarterback.
New York’s defense seems to be just fine. Rex is a great defensive mind and that isn’t going to change any time soon. Schottenheimer’s reputation as a gutless play-caller dates back a few years, and the Jets should consider bringing in someone who isn’t afraid to take chances if they want to get over the AFC Championship hump. With Sanchez entering his third season, it’s time to lengthen the leash.
