FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- The New York Jets' expectations for Sauce Gardner are reminiscent of the Permian High mantra from the old "Friday Night Lights" movie:
Be perfect.
When new defensive coordinator Steve Wilks met Gardner for the first time at the beginning of the offseason, he challenged the star cornerback to raise his game to a new level. Perhaps he noticed some slippage last season after a historic start to his career. Or maybe he was just pushing buttons, which coaches do even with their best players.
Whatever the reason, his message connected.