JETS NEED TO TAKE FASTER STARTS

In the rabbit and tortoise chase for victory, the Jets in the role of tortoise are not working out. For them being slow and steady is getting on to their nerves. They have encountered more turnovers than touchdowns in the first quarter this season, which is probably the reason why the Jets are off to such a terrible start. Coach Herman Edwards has emphasized the importance of putting together a drive of more than three plays to help turn the tide on what has been an offensive struggle. The Jets at 2-5 have scored seven points in seven first quarters advancing into their game on Sunday against San Diego. Their only score came when they played against Miami and incidentally that was the only time they have had a halftime lead this season. Vinny Testaverde has yet to prove his determination in three games, though he has run for two. Laveranues Coles has the only touchdown catch among receivers. Moreover, the Jets despite of scoring early are hurting themselves with mistakes and penalties. One reason is their inability to do much on first and second downs that has put the Jets in nearly impossible third-down situations. The team’s defense is also terrible particularly when the offense cannot sustain a drive or score. The team’s defense can get a tremendous lift if it could play with and protect a lead.