Jets Face Uncertain Future After Firing Coach Robert Saleh
The New York Jets are at a crossroads as they prepare to face the Buffalo Bills in a crucial divisional matchup on Monday night. The team’s decision to fire coach Robert Saleh and replace him with defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich has sent shockwaves through the locker room and the NFL.
Can the Jets Overcome the Odds?
History suggests that teams that fire their coach midseason tend to perform better in their next game. Since 2020, teams with an interim head coach have gone 9-2 against the spread in their first game, according to ESPN Research. However, there are caveats to consider, including the fact that the season is often already lost when a coach is fired.
The Jets’ Situation is Unique
Unlike many teams that fire their coach midseason, the Jets still have a lot to play for. They have a 57.5% chance of making the playoffs, according to ESPN FPI, and some sportsbooks are still offering minus odds on their regular-season win total and odds to win the AFC East. The tight spread against the Bills is indicative of the Jets’ remaining potential.
Emotion Plays a Role
The emotional reaction of the team to the coaching change is also a factor to consider. Bookmakers attempt to account for this intangible aspect of linemaking, but it’s difficult to quantify. The Jets’ response to the firing of Saleh and the appointment of Ulbrich remains to be seen.
What to Expect on Monday Night
The matchup between the Jets and Bills promises to be an entertaining contest for bettors and casual fans alike. With the Jets facing an uncertain future, it’s anyone’s guess how they will perform on Monday night. Will they rise to the occasion and prove themselves as a playoff contender, or will they succumb to the pressure and uncertainty surrounding the team?
Odds and Results for First Game After Coach Was Fired
| Season | Week | Team | Interim Coach | Team Spread | Opponent | SU Result | Point Differential |
| — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| 2023 | 16 | Chargers | Giff Smith | 12.5 | Bills | L | -22 |
| 2023 | 13 | Panthers | Chris Tabor | 3.5 | Buccaneers | L | -3 |
| 2023 | 9 | Raiders | Antonio Pierce | -1.5 | Giants | W | 24 |
| 2022 | 17 | Broncos | Jerry Rosburg | 12.5 | Chiefs | L | -32 |
| 2022 | 10 | Colts | Jeff Saturday | 4 | Raiders | W | 5 |
| 2022 | 6 | Panthers | Steve Wilks | 10 | Rams | L | -14 |
| 2021 | 15 | Jaguars | Darrell Bevell | -6 | Texans | L | -14 |
| 2021 | 6 | Raiders | Rich Bisaccia | 5 | Broncos | W | 10 |
| 2020 | 13 | Lions | Darrell Bevell | 3 | Bears | W | 4 |
| 2020 | 6 | Falcons | Raheem Morris | 3.5 | Vikings | W | 17 |
| 2020 | 5 | Texans | Romeo Crennel | -6.5 | Jaguars | W | 16 |
Leave a Reply