EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- The Jets have now lost seven straight games after a 43-23 blowout at MetLife Stadium. The Bills, now 5-3, have managed to stay alive in the AFC while leaving the Jets with a handful of pressing problems that include major decisions on the coaching staff and at quarterback. Here's how it happened:
- Michael Vick had a chance to do exactly what he allegedly set out to do at the beginning of the season and prove he could still be a regular starting quarterback in the NFL. Geno Smithbowed out after just a handful of drives and three interceptions, but the Jets' deficit was still modest. Instead of playing the hero, though, Vick fumbled the ball four times and losttwo. He also added a pick.
- This game seems to have sealed the fate of Rex Ryan. The coach not only lost his composure on the sideline and had to be restrained by his own staff when screaming at an official, but he watched a fundamentally unprepared team get blown out at home. The last time the Jets had a losing streak this long, Herm Edwards was in his final year as head coach. As much as Ryan is beloved in Florham Park, general manager John Idzik won't be able to wait much longer.
- The Jets used Percy Harvin on 40 snaps Sunday, by an unofficial count. In time, he will absolutely open up the offense for Eric Decker, but Smith and Vick must resist the urge to force the ball to him. Harvin was used sparingly in the slot but was a heavy presence on the outside and in the Jets' backfield. He had four carries.
- Bills fans can -- and should -- complain about the ultra-conservative play calling from their coaching staff. The Jets are so obviously hurting in the secondary, but the prevailing option seemed to be forcing the ball to Anthony Dixon, whose longest carry of the afternoon was 5 yards. This game didn't need to be close after the midway point of the second quarter.
- Sammy Watkins is incredible. He had gains of 84 and 61 on Sunday and a touchdown, but the one thing everybody will remember was the score that didn't happen. As polished of a product as he is, Watkins learned the hard way that he can be caught from behind. If nothing else for the Jets, the tackle by converted safety Saalim Hakim can be on Rex's hustle reel on Monday.
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