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Jets offensive line the unsung heroes of shock start – Metro US

Jets offensive line the unsung heroes of shock start

Jets offensive line the unsung heroes of shock start

The offensive line led the way for the New York Jets in Week 5, boosting the team’s record to 3-2. A season pegged to be horrible continues to surprise as the Jets approach midseason.

The Jets have surprised the NFL world, winning three games as they head into Week 6, a shocking win total for a team that wasn’t the favorite in any game heading into this season. But the Jets have balanced things behind a stronger than expected offensive line and an aggressive defense.

They’ve had some struggles and faults to date but overall, the Jets are playing better than expected football. Sunday’s win at the Cleveland Browns underscores this, in particular, their commitment to the trenches and protecting quarterback Josh McCown.

The Jets may not have a big name quarterback or playmakers at the skills position but they haven’t needed it to date.

According to Pro Football Focus, guard Brian Winters and right tackle Brandon Shell were each perfect in pass protection, not allowing a pressure or a sack in 34 passing downs. In addition, PFF says that Jets left tackle Kelvin Beachum had a solid afternoon in Cleveland with a 75.5 overall grade, this despite a difficult task against Myles Garrett.

On the defensive side of the ball, linebacker Demario Davis deserves to be praised.

Acquired in an offseason trade with the Browns, Davis has been a standout over the past three weeks. In their grades, PFF gave the inside linebacker an 82.1 grade, noting that after five weeks he’s on pace for a career year.

“He led all Jets in overall grade this week — showcasing great playmaking ability in all phases of the game. Davis rushed the passer 14 times and notched three quarterback hits,” PFF’s John Gatta wrote. “Across 26 snaps in coverage, he was targeted just once, allowing a catch for six yards. In the run game, he added three run stops. Davis did it all this week.”

The Jets own a share of first place in the AFC East and can wrestle control of the division this Sunday when they host the also 3-2 New England Patriots.