New York Jets owner Woody Johnson finally did it, he fired Robert Saleh. This is the first time in the 24 years since he took over the team that he took the step of firing a coach mid-season. That’s not the kind of decision you make lightly, and so early in the season. But what’s the general atmosphere around the firing?

Well, the Jets might have lost faith in Saleh, but some still think he’s got a future in the league. Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell confirmed Pat McAfee’s view of coaching, “You’re only as good as today and yesterday.” He went on to add, “Robert Saleh’s a great football coach, there’s a reason he’s had the success he’s had.” KOC went on to express confidence Saleh would get back on his feet and find his place in the league.

KOC is the most recent coach whose team handed the Jets a defeat. Looks like he’ll be the last to hand one to Saleh as head coach for them. KOC’s Minnesota Vikings have been on an unimaginable roll this season. With their 5 game win-streak, only the Kansas City Chiefs have equaled the feat. McAfee lauded him as an excellent leader of men in the light of his comments about Saleh, which have been remarkably balanced and mature.

But with Robert Saleh out of the picture, who are the Jets to turn to? As of now, Jeff Ulbrich, defensive coordinator for the Jets, will be taking on the role of interim head coach. Given the New York Jets‘ defense was the strongest aspect of their team (second best in the league), we can assume Ulbrich knows what he’s doing. Having spent 3 years with the Jets already, he’s familiar with the team atmosphere, and might know how to make them a winning squad again.

How will the Jets fare against the Bills?

With the Jets 2-3 down, they’re not necessarily out of contention for the playoffs. Only the Buffalo Bills have done better than them in the AFC East, 3-2 for the moment. And it’s the Bills they’re up against next Monday. There’s a strong rivalry between the two sides, going back more than half a century. The Bills have a slight edge, having won 69 of 127 games played, and 3 of the last 5. The Bills will be coming into the game off the back of an exhilarating win against the Steelers that everyone predicted they’d lose. In terms of mindset, they’ll have a massive advantage, especially compared to the Jets now. Losing your coach mid-season and having to adjust is not going to be easy.

Plus, Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb have come into their own just recently. Thankfully, the Jets have been able to count on their defense so far. They’ll need to make the most of every advantage they get. With the Aaron Rodgers-led offense failing to fire, things aren’t looking too good. Hopefully, they can put up a respectable fight, and keep their playoff hopes alive.