Jets Defense Wastes Geno Smith’s Best Effort

The Jets had a signature win within reach against Detroit and watched it disappear because the defense could not make one final stop. Geno Smith helped erase a 14-point deficit and tied the game late, but the Lions answered immediately, leaving Evan Roberts and Tiki Barber frustrated by another winnable game slipping away.

The bigger surprise is how encouraging the Jets offense looked despite the loss. Geno made big-time throws, Garrett Wilson delivered a huge touchdown catch, and the passing game carried an offense that got almost nothing from the run game. Aaron Glenn’s clock management, costly penalties and defensive approach all draw criticism, but the hosts argue the blame goes well beyond the head coach.