Adam Gase Underscores Kelvin Beachum's Return: 'It Was a Big Deal'
Sam Darnold was only sacked twice on Sunday in the New York Jets 34-27 win over the New York Giants. A major reason was the return of Kelvin Beachum to the offensive line, the veteran helping to solidify the protection of the second-year quarterback.
And while Darnold was still hit eight times in the win, the protection allowed him to have more time in the pocket. The byproduct of this, not surprisingly, was the best and most consistent performance from Darnold during the past month. In the two games before the win over the Giants, Darnold had been sacked a combined 11 times.
That he pieced together a solid game with four Jets scoring drives and no turnovers is in part a testament to the return of Beachum to the line. The veteran had missed the last three games with an ankle injury.
The 30-year old tackle played every offensive snap for the Jets in the win.
“I think it was a big deal. Just having a guy that's a captain back in a lineup is positive for us,” Jets head coach Adam Gase said.
“I think the other guys seeing him work to get back out there, I know he probably wasn't feeling the best that he's felt in his career, but he fought through probably a lot of pain and aggravation throughout the game, got himself ready and then went out there and played well and did a good job. Especially in pass protection, he did a good job of making sure that that side wasn't an issue. It was kind of good for our line to get that groove back together.”
The offensive line has been a season long struggle for the Jets, in particular protecting the quarterback.
They have allowed 37 sacks, second most in the NFL this year. Their adjusted sack rate of 12% is most in the league.
