New York Jets defensive back Sauce Gardner intimidates opposing NFL quarterbacks by playing terrific man coverage. Gardner’s impact singlehandedly allows defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich to blitz at will.
You know @iamSauceGardner always makes his presence felt. #NFL pic.twitter.com/TIutBW9Ng3
— Larry Brown Jr. (@larrytouchdown) September 20, 2024
New England Patriots quarterback Jacoby Brissett only attempted 18 passes versus the Jets and he didn’t target the wide receiver covered by Gardner often. Brissett’s reluctance, a factor influenced by Gardner, helped lead to sacks by Will McDonald IV, safety Chuck Clark, and Quinnen Williams.
Wide receivers are hardly ever open when Gardner is in coverage and quarterbacks simply aren’t willing to take the risk of throwing in his vicinity.
The Jets dynamic young duo sign the #TNFonPrime helmet. ✍️ pic.twitter.com/nk2IkvYT8C
— NFL on Prime Video (@NFLonPrime) September 20, 2024
When Gardner isn’t in coverage, he’s mixing it up, preventing first-downs by making physical open-field tackles, another facet of his defensive prowess.
For Gardner, it isn’t always about making the highlight reel, but about making it difficult for the opposing offense to move the ball, and more importantly, getting off the field on third-downs.
The Jets serve up a dub #TNFonPrime pic.twitter.com/ZdfgwPHp6l
— NFL on Prime Video (@NFLonPrime) September 20, 2024
