Sep 15, 2016; Orchard Park, NY, USA; New York Jets defensive end <a rel=

Bowles Figured It Out Defensively

When Sheldon Richardson was suspended during Week 1, Muhammad Wilkerson played his best game of the season (1.5 sacks, five tackles). When Big Mo was sidelined in Week 7, Sheldon Richardson played his best game of the season while lined up in his familiar 3-technique (one sack, six tackles).

The point is: in this situation, less is more.

It’s impossible to fit three interior defensive linemen into a two-man system. Hopefully, Bowles has realized this by now and adjusts accordingly.

What he must do is gamble and put one of them at the nose tackle spot, in taking Steve McLendon off the field:

With the Jets ranking so well against the run and so horrid against the pass, taking this chance in going lighter should happen immediately.

If Bowles doesn’t adjust accordingly and we, yet again, see the 4-man heavy front, it’d be extremely disappointing.

If he figures it out, this defense will finally play up to its potential.

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Robby Sabo is a co-founder, CEO and credentialed New York Jets content creator for Jets X-Factor - Jet X, which includes Sabo's Sessions (in-depth film breakdowns) and Sabo with the Jets. Host: Underdog Jets Podcast with Wayne Chrebet and Sabo Radio. Member: Pro Football Writers of America. Coach: Port Jervis (NY) High School. Washed up strong safety and 400M runner. SEO: XL Media. Founder: Elite Sports NY - ESNY (Sold in 2020). SEO: XL Media. Email: robby.sabo[at]jetsxfactor.com