New York Jets: 3 X-Factors to watch vs. Panthers in Week 12

2. Jordan Jenkins

This week Jordan Jenkins has two main responsibilities. The first is a typical one of a 3-4 outside linebacker. He must set the edge and funnel the running game (whether it’s Cam Newton on designed runs or a running back) to the interior linemen and linebackers. This will help keep the potent Panthers rushing attack down.

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The second responsibility is the tricky one. He must maintain discipline and not allow Newton to get outside the pocket on pass plays. Unlike against Tyrod Taylor, when Jenkins recorded two sacks, he must not try and do too much and try to get sacks against Cam Newton. Jenkins must play within himself and just keep Newton in the pocket. If the opportunity to bring him down presents itself, so be it, but he shouldn’t force the issue.

Jenkins must keep Newton in front of him and allow the interior defensive linemen in linebackers to get to him. This game will be a big test for Jenkins against a great mobile quarterback in the league. The key word is discipline, maintain the rush lane, and don’t over pursue, because Newton will eat him alive if he does. This is the game where Jenkins can take the next step into becoming one of the league’s top edge rushers.