Missed opportunities. That's the overriding thought coming out of the New York Jets' 27-21 loss to the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium on Monday night.
A total of 13 penalties for 101 yards and three killer turnovers plagued Aaron Glenn's team as the Dolphins took full advantage. Yeah, the comeback was nearly completed in the second half, but the Jets gave themselves too much to do and ultimately fell short against their AFC East rivals.
And for Justin Fields, he knows how potent the offense was, but the self-inflicted wounds plagued them.
“I thought we were really able to do whatever we wanted on offense if I'm being honest with you,” Fields said. “It was just the turnovers that killed us. So, if we eliminate those, eliminate the penalties, then the sky's is the limit for us.”
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Jets offense shows promise vs. Dolphins
Was Fields right about the offense doing what it wanted? Let's take a look.
The first three drives? Absolutely, with the Jets having 15, 12, and 16-play drives, which only yielded a field goal thanks to two fumbles.
But after that, a fumble on the first offensive play, a six-play touchdown drive, then a punt followed by a field goal (seven plays) and another punt (10 plays) before the final touchdown (nine plays) of the game.
To an extent, yes, the offense did move the ball relatively easily, but all of their good work was undone by the fumbles and penalties, which crippled them.
If, and that's a big if, they can address those issues while still maintaining a high level of offensive play, then the Jets won't be winless for much longer.
More Jets news:
- Aaron Glenn laments Jets' self-destruction following loss to Dolphins | Sporting News
- Breece Hall didn't hold back about Jets' sloppy performance vs. Dolphins | Sporting News
- NFL winless teams: Jets lead teams yet to get a victory this season after Week 4 | Sporting News
- Aaron Glenn matches Adam Gase's ineptitude after Jets lose to Dolphins | Sporting News