Jets Interim HC Jeff Ulbrich: No Plans to Shut Down Aaron Rodgers
FLORHAM PARK, N.J. – New York Jets interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich made it clear on Wednesday that the team has no plans to shut down Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers in their upcoming matchup on Sunday.
Rodgers, a four-time NFL MVP, has been one of the most prolific passers in the league for nearly two decades. Despite the Packers’ struggles this season, Rodgers remains a dangerous threat, as evidenced by his 3,695 passing yards and 26 touchdowns so far.
Ulbrich’s Confidence in Defense
Despite Rodgers’ impressive resume, Ulbrich expressed confidence in the Jets’ defense to hold their own against the veteran quarterback.
“We’re not going to try to do anything fancy or overcomplicate things,” Ulbrich said. “We’re going to play our base defense, put pressure on him, and make him uncomfortable. We believe in our guys, and we’re going to let them go out there and play.”
The Jets’ defense has shown improvement under Ulbrich, who took over as interim head coach after Robert Saleh underwent surgery. The team has allowed an average of just 19.5 points per game since Ulbrich took charge, down from 24.1 points per game under Saleh.
History on Rodgers’ Side
Historically, the Jets have struggled to contain Rodgers. In their last three meetings, Rodgers has thrown for a combined 831 yards, eight touchdowns, and zero interceptions against the Jets.
Rodgers is also 5-1 against the Jets in his career, with the only loss coming in 2015 when he was injured and did not finish the game.
Jets’ Pass Rush Key
The Jets’ pass rush will be crucial in slowing down Rodgers. The team has recorded 33 sacks this season, tied for eighth-most in the NFL.
Led by Quinnen Williams and John Franklin-Myers, the Jets’ defensive line has the potential to disrupt Rodgers’ rhythm and force him into mistakes.
Jets’ Secondary Faces Challenge
While the Jets’ pass rush will be important, the secondary will also face a significant challenge in covering Rodgers’ talented receivers, including Davante Adams, Allen Lazard, and Christian Watson.
The Jets’ secondary has been inconsistent this season, but they will need to be at their best to limit Rodgers’ passing attack.
Jets Aim for Upset
Despite the Packers’ status as a traditional powerhouse and Rodgers’ individual brilliance, the Jets believe they have a chance to pull off an upset on Sunday.
“We’re not going into this game thinking we’re going to lose,” Ulbrich said. “We’re going to go out there and play our hardest, and we’re going to see what happens.”
The Jets and Packers will square off at Lambeau Field on Sunday at 1:00 PM EST.