Three Important Things to Watch in Jets' Second Preseason Tilt

Looking for answers when Gang Green faces the Panthers in Carolina

While Bryce Young promises to be the main attraction when the Carolina Panthers host the New York Jets on Saturday at Bank of America Stadium, the NFL Preseason game carries plenty of importance for a number of players in Green & White.

Between battling for starting spots and digesting the new offensive system in place, Jets' players have plenty of work to do prior to the Monday Football Opener on September 11.

As competitive as practices can be, there's no substitute for live game action. Saturday's tilt in Carolina provides the chance to evaluate three key questions facing Gang Green.

Zach Wilson at the Controls

The former No. 2 overall draft pick will start his second straight preseason game since becoming Aaron Rodgers's understudy. 

Wilson attempted only five passes in last week's Hall of Fame Game, but one was a nice 57-yard long ball to Malik Taylor. The third-year pro finished 3-of-5 passing for 65 yards in one quarter of action against the Cleveland Browns.

"I feel like I’m trying to find my way," said Wilson after the preseason opener. "I feel like this training camp and OTAs, I found what feels comfortable for me and it’s definitely not perfect, but it’s something I’m working at."

The 24-year-old Wilson was intercepted for the first time in training camp during Wednesday's joint practice with the Carolina Panthers in Spartanburg.

"He threw his first interception of camp, it’s been two and a half, almost three weeks now, so he’s been having a good camp," said Saleh. "Just to see him bounce back and continue and get back on track on the road he’s been on. I’m excited about his direction, he’s in such a great mindset, so it’s just a matter of him just getting back on the horse and rolling."

The third-year head coach wants to see Wilson "continue to stack up good days."

Offensive Tackle Snap Disbursement

With Duane Brown out and Mekhi Becton slowly ramping back up from a two-year absence, the Jets have question marks at both offensive tackle spots. 

Veteran free-agent addition Billy Turner and second-year pro Max Mitchell have been rotating between right and left tackle while taking the majority of first-team practice reps of late.

Saturday's game is a prime opportunity for Becton to further test the durability of his surgically-repaired right knee. The 2020 first-round talent has recently flashed his ability during training camp, but it remains to be seen if he can hold up over the course of a full game yet.

"It’s about getting comfortable with that knee and straining himself to push through and find ways to be able to show that he can play a full game. Then, on a normal practice schedule, show that he can do it again," said Saleh on Thursday in Spartanburg. "If he can do that, and that’s what this whole camp is about, is to get him mentally connected to that knee. I mean he had a block yesterday that was unbelievable and for him, it’s all confidence."

As for Turner and Mitchell, they're adjusting to new offensive line coach Keith Carter while trying to prove worthy of a starting role.

"We want these guys rolling, we want confidence, we want to start humming, but I also understand all the different moving parts and verbiage and new scheme," said Saleh. "Keith has a different style to the way he coaches and his technique, so there’s a learning curve."

OT Mekhi Becton (77) and Billy Turner (54) / © Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

Return Game Developments

While Mecole Hardman will likely handle the primary return duties, preseason games provide the opportunity for other options to emerge. 

If undrafted rookie Xavier Gipson happens to steal the sixth receiver spot on the Jets' 53-man roster, it will be because of the added value he brings to special teams. After excelling in the return game at Stephen F. Austin, Gipson has flashed his ability during training camp.

"I like him. He’s got a great mindset to him," said Saleh. "He’s kind of got a veteran mindset to him in that he’s composed, he’s very business-like."

Gipson's performance in the Hall of Fame Game caught his coach's attention.

After muffing a first-quarter punt that trickled out of bounds at his own 5-yard line, Gipson ripped off a 47-yard kickoff return that allowed the Jets to hit a field goal as the first half clock expired.

"He had all kinds of space and I think he probably got a little excited, but he might still be running if he can field that one clean," said Saleh of the muff. "No doubt that we’d have the confidence to put him back there again and let him go do it. He’s been doing everything right and I know he’s salivating at his next [chance]."

Jets at Panthers (Preseason Game No. 2)

Saturday, August 12 • 4:00 pm ET

Point Spread: Panthers -3.5

Money Line: Jets +145; Panthers -175

Total (Over/Under): 37

Watch: NFL Network (WCBS locally in NY market)

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