Jeff Ulbrich on Jets Locker Room After Miami Win: ‘Finishing It the Right Way Was Big for All of Us’
After a thrilling 20-14 win over the Miami Dolphins, New York Jets defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich shared his thoughts on the victory and what it meant for his team, particularly in terms of the emotional and psychological impact it had on the locker room. Ulbrich’s defense was instrumental in the win, making key plays in the final moments to seal the deal and secure a crucial victory in their quest for playoff contention.
In his postgame comments, Ulbrich emphasized the importance of “finishing it the right way.” While the win was hard-fought, it was the way in which the Jets were able to close out the game that stood out to the defensive coordinator. “There’s something to be said for finishing these types of games the right way. That’s something we’ve been focused on as a team, not just in the X’s and O’s but mentally,” Ulbrich said in a passionate tone. He went on to explain that this win wasn’t just a boost to the team’s record but also a significant step forward in terms of the team’s mentality and confidence.
The Jets’ defense had been under fire in previous seasons for not being able to close out tight games, with a few high-profile losses where they failed to hold onto a lead in the fourth quarter. This time, however, Ulbrich’s unit stepped up when it mattered most. Despite Miami’s explosive offense and the Dolphins’ aggressive playcalling, the Jets held firm in the final moments. A critical sack by Quinnen Williams and a timely interception by Sauce Gardner were just two of the game-clinching plays that allowed the defense to finish the job.
For Ulbrich, this was a sign that his team was growing, evolving, and learning how to win in critical situations. “We’ve talked about the importance of finishing—finishing each play, each quarter, and each game. And today, I felt we did that,” he said. The emotional weight of the victory was palpable in the locker room as players celebrated the win, knowing how important it was for their momentum moving forward in a competitive AFC East.
One of the most telling parts of Ulbrich’s remarks came when he reflected on the broader impact of the win. “Finishing it the right way was big for all of us,” he stated, pointing out that the victory wasn’t just about the defense or one unit—it was a collective achievement that involved the offense, special teams, and coaching staff. The sense of unity within the locker room was evident, and the win felt like a team-wide validation of the hard work they’ve been putting in.
With the victory over Miami, the Jets solidified their place in the playoff hunt, and Ulbrich’s message resonated deeply with his players. The win was a testament to the culture they’re building—one that is focused on finishing strong, no matter the circumstances. As they move forward in the season, Ulbrich’s focus on finishing will undoubtedly continue to be a guiding principle for the team.
