Jets fall to Buccaneers in preseason opener as Geno Smith sits with ankle injury
New York Jets lose 24-16 to Tampa Bay Buccaneers; rookie Cade Klubnik starts, Bailey Zappe struggles with turnovers
The New York Jets opened their preseason campaign with a 24-16 defeat against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at MetLife Stadium. Starting quarterback Geno Smith did not participate in the contest due to ankle soreness, leaving the offensive leadership to backup and rookie players.
Fourth-round rookie quarterback Cade Klubnik led the Jets’ offense for the majority of the first half, completing five of seven passes for 52 yards. He orchestrated two scoring drives that established a 10-0 lead in the first quarter, displaying a developing rapport with receiver Garrett Wilson, who recorded two catches on his sole drive of the game. Klubnik also targeted Mason Taylor, who made several receptions on the opening drive.
Backup quarterback Bailey Zappe struggled significantly upon entering the game. He threw an interception that was returned 47 yards for a touchdown by Ayden Garnes, followed by a second interception on the subsequent drive. Third-string quarterback Brady Cook played most of the second half, guiding the Jets to two field goals in the absence of further scoring drives.
The Jets’ rushing attack was highlighted by Braelon Allen, who returned from an injury sustained last year. Allen finished with 44 yards on four carries, including a 31-yard touchdown run. Breece Hall ran for 16 yards on four carries before being pulled after the opening series, narrowly missing a touchdown before being slowed by the Buccaneers' defensive line. The team accumulated 91 rushing yards overall.
On the defensive side, the Jets allowed Tampa Bay backup quarterback Connor Bazelak to complete 12 of 20 passes for 72 yards. The Buccaneers’ offensive line protected Bazelak effectively, allowing only one sack recorded by Will McDonald on the opening drive. Tampa Bay’s backup running back Josh Williams scored a rushing touchdown to give the Buccaneers the lead for good early in the third quarter, while backup quarterback Jalon Daniels added another rushing touchdown late in the fourth.
