The Jets' Daring Journey: Can They Handle Success?

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- The atmosphere is electric for the New York Jets, who are riding high with consecutive victories and an offense that's breaking free from its decades-long struggles. But as they bask in newfound glory, quarterback Aaron Rodgers insists they must prove themselves capable of handling this prosperity.

In a candid discussion on Wednesday, Rodgers evoked a piece of wisdom from his former coach with the Green Bay Packers, Mike McCarthy, who cautioned in 2006, "Our biggest struggle is going to be handling success." This sentiment resonates deeply with the Jets, who must confront the challenge of sustained achievement.

"It’s a significant challenge," Rodgers noted. "When you’re down and out, you can rally together against the world. But when you start to hear compliments, can you maintain that same drive and unity? That’s what separates good teams from great teams."

Currently boasting a 2-1 record with two wins in a row, the Jets are set to test their mettle against the Denver Broncos (1-2) at MetLife Stadium this Sunday. The Jets are favored to win by 7.5 points, a rare advantage they haven’t enjoyed often in recent years.

Under the leadership of Rodgers, who appears back in form after recovering from a torn Achilles, the Jets' offense has accomplished something remarkable: scoring three touchdowns in each of their first three games. While this might seem modest by the standards of other teams, it’s a milestone for the Jets, with the last occurrence dating back to 1989. The team hasn’t achieved this feat for four consecutive games since the tumultuous 1996 season, which ended with a dismal 1-15 record.

As the Jets aim to cultivate a winning mentality, Rodgers has emphasized the importance of maintaining focus each week. He believes that "consistent messaging from the top" alongside the embodiment of those values by the team leaders is crucial.

“Games are often won and lost in the week leading up to Sunday,” he explained. "It’s about taking care of your body, preparing correctly, and having the right conversations. Sunday just brings everything together after six days of hard work.”

However, history shows the Jets have struggled to capitalize on early successes. In the past two seasons, they started strong at 6-3 and 4-3 yet ultimately faltered to 7-10 finishes. Previously led by quarterback Zach Wilson, who is now the Broncos' third-string player after the offseason trade, the franchise is looking forward to different outcomes with Rodgers at the helm.

On Sunday, the Jets will make a notable roster adjustment as rookie Olu Fashanu makes his starting debut at right tackle, stepping in for Morgan Moses, who is sidelined with a sprained knee. Fashanu, the 11th overall draft pick, is primarily a left tackle but has practiced at right tackle in the preseason. His critical responsibility will be to protect the four-time MVP quarterback against a Broncos defense that has tallied 11 sacks so far this season.

"Protecting Aaron is a major responsibility," Fashanu acknowledged. "He carries a presence that instills confidence in everyone around him. I definitely feel the weight of this task, but he motivates us to rise to the occasion.”

As kickoff approaches, the Jets’ ambition is clear: navigate the treacherous waters of success and demonstrate they have what it takes to rise above the challenges ahead. Can they transform their promising start into a defining season? Fans and analysts alike eagerly await to see if they can turn praise into power on the field.