The 1986 New York Jets were a team in turmoil. They were still sharp despite having only three interceptions. This article examines their performance and blames Charley Steiner, Steve Grogan, and the defense. The Jets finished 2-9, and were out of the playoff picture by the end of the season. But what is O’Brien’s real fault? Is he a poor quarterback, or is it Steve Grogan’s fault?
Table of Contents
O’Brien was razor-sharp
O’Brien played in the NFL from 1984 to 1992. He is second in Jets history as the leading passer behind Joe Namath. He threw for 24,386 yard, 124 touchdowns and 95 interceptions. O’Brien’s efficiency has declined dramatically in recent games. He is currently on a three-game losing streak.
O’Brien threw three interceptions
In his final season, Bill O’Brien threw three intercepts and finished with a 13/27 passing grade and a.311 passer rating. This was a low mark for O’Brien, who was one of the Jets’ best quarterbacks. The Jets’ offense was underwhelming, allowing the Dolphins to gain over 400 yards rushing and passing.
Charley Steiner’s fault
Although the 1986 New York Jets weren’t supposed to make it to the Super Bowl, their stifling defense against Bernie Kosar and late-hit penalty on him kept them alive. The Jets led by 10 points through three quarters and had a field goal lead in the fourth. In the final minute of regulation, Freeman McNeil ran to score a touchdown which forced overtime. Steiner’s mistake was not the only one that cost the Jets the game, and it is arguably the most notable of all.
Steve Grogan’s performance
The performance of Steve Grogan with the 1986 New York Jets can be considered one of the greatest in NFL history. Grogan was a great quarterback despite suffering seemingly endless injuries. His list of grueling injuries includes five knee surgeries, a ruptured neck disk, two separated shoulders, and three concussions. Grogan’s fearlessness and ability to remain calm under pressure never diminished despite all the setbacks.
Johnny Hector
The aging running back, born in Mexico, was a second round pick of the 1986 NFL Draft. In his ten years with the Jets, Hector ran for 4,280 yards and 41 touchdowns. Hector averaged 4.1 yards per carry and had impressive rushing stats. Although he was limited by injuries, Hector’s career remained memorable.
Steve Grogan
As the fifth overall pick in the 1975 NFL Draft, Steve Grogan was a popular choice for the New England Patriots. Head coach Chuck Fairbanks replaced Jim Plunkett with Grogan midway through the season. In the first nine games, Grogan threw for 1,976 yards, 11 touchdowns and 18 interceptions. The Patriots traded Jim Plunkett midway through the season to the San Francisco 49ers in exchange for three draft picks in the first round.