New York Jets got a big confidence boost after snapping a three-game losing streak with a 34-27 win over New York Giants on Sunday night. The win was especially motivating for their second-year quarterback Sam Darnold, who now believes that the Jets even have a chance to make it to the playoffs.
Despite being 2-7 and in the run for the No. 1 overall pick in 2020 NFL Draft, Darnold hasn’t given up on hopes that his team could miraculously play postseason this year.
“We need every win from now on because we’ve still got a chance. I mean, if we get on a roll here and we win out, we’ve got a chance at the playoffs,” – Darnold told reporters. “Guys in this locker room know this. They know that, and we’re really excited to continue to get back to work. That’s what it’s about.”
While Darnold’s statement may seem outrageous to many, he’s technically not wrong. Considering the crowded AFC wild-card race, Jets would be in the mix for playoffs if they would win all of their remaining games and reach 9-7 record. They certainly have tools for this, as they are facing the league’s third weakest schedule for the remainder of the season.
Still, the things that New York Jets have shown so far in the season don’t make it realistic that they will manage to meet Darnold’s hopes. The team is averaging just 12 points per game in 2019 and find themselves at the bottom of almost every offensive category. Also, their defense has been struggling besides rare flashes of great performances.
Darnold and the Jets will face struggling Washington Redskins on Sunday, so there is a chance that they could extend their run of good games. What happens later is remained to be seen.
