OFFENSE
This unit took a big step back after last week’s great performance. QB Geno Smith (19-of-34, 201 yards, 2 INTs) was not terrible, but the two turnovers were killers near the end zone. The Jets established no running game (20 rushes for 83 yards) and the wide receivers had a poor day. It was the second game this season the Jets failed to score a touchdown.
Grade: D
DEFENSE
QB Ben Roethlisberger (23-of-30, 264 yards, 1 TD) rolled through the Jets defense, picking it apart for most of the day. The defense had some good moments keeping the Steelers out of the end zone on a few drives, but gave up a big 55-yard touchdown to Emmanuel Sanders, who beat Jets CB Antonio Cromartie. They stopped the run for the most part, holding Pittsburgh to 2.8 yards per carry.
Grade: C
SPECIAL TEAMS
Clyde Gates looked close to busting a kickoff return a couple of times and ended up with a 28-yard average on his two returns. Nick Folk remained perfect with two more field goals. There were no big plays like last week. Jeremy Kerley had four punt returns for 45 yards, but could not break a big one when the Jets offense desperately needed help.
Grade C+
COACHING
The Jets did not look ready to play. Their offense was sluggish and never found any rhythm and the defense gave up too many yards (328). Rex Ryan did not find the right buttons to push this week to motivate the team coming off its emotional win in Atlanta. Marty Mornhinweg tried to establish a running game early, but it never worked.
Grade: C-