Jets’ playoff hopes dashed after loss to Dolphins

Robert Saleh Postgame Press Conference (12/17) | New York Jets at Miami Dolphins

The New York Jets were knocked out of the playoffs after a 30-0 loss to the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium on Sunday.

This loss marked the Jets’ sixth straight losing season, bringing their season record to 5-9, with eight of those losses against Miami.

“It’s disappointing,” said coach Robert Saleh. “It started the first series of the year all the way to now. It’s been a constant battle.”

The recent loss raises doubts about Aaron Rodgers’ return to the upcoming game against the Washington Commanders on December 24. The quarterback has hinted that the Jets’ playoff contention plays a crucial role in his potential comeback.

Despite high expectations following the trade for Rodgers, the Jets faced setbacks as he sustained a left Achilles tendon injury in his four debut games with the team. Moreover, New York faced a series of losses with quarterback Zach Wilson in charge.

Jets wide receiver Allen Lazard said the Dolphins played a better game, making the Jets outplayed in every aspect.

“It’s been tough all year,” said Lazard. ”Obviously, you want to go out there and put up better performance and play better as individuals and as a unit and collectively as a team. But, we’ve definitely fallen far short of that.”

Wilson and the Jets hoped their winning 30-6 over Houston last week could hasten the end of a 12-season playoff. However, Wilson faced repeated pressure and was sacked four times by the Dolphins.

Sacked by Bradley Chubb and Christian Wilkins, Wilson’s second attempt caused him a 14-yard loss, and the ball was stripped. Zach Sieler recovered the fumble, and Raheem Mostert’s 2-yard run made it 7-0 to the Dolphins after three plays.

Wilson left due to a concussion in the second quarter and finished four of 11 for 26 yards. Trevor Siemian, Wilson’s replacement, finished 14 of 25 for 110 yards with two interceptions.

With six sacks and 22 pressures, the Jets finished with a total offense of 103 yards, the fourth fewest in franchise history. This is three of the worst five offensive performances since Saleh was in charge.