Rex Ryan wants to 'force the issue' to get Sammy Watkins the ball

Sammy Watkins was a non-factor once again on Monday night against the New England Patriots, catching three passes for 39 yards. It was his fifth game with under 50 receiving yards, though Malcolm Butler played a huge role in limiting Watkins' production.

Following the loss, Rex Ryan believes it's time to start forcing the ball to Watkins because of his ability to win one-on-one matchups.

"You try to look at the defense and put your guys in an opportunity where they can be successful. You're trying to throw to the open guy," Ryan said, via Mike Rodak of ESPN.com. "However, I think Sammy is such a talent that you can probably force the issue a little bit there. And obviously if there's one-on-ones across the board, then let's take our best shot. We'll throw up our best against your best and see what happens. Because I truly believe Sammy is that good."

Watkins does have immense athletic ability, but he and Tyrod Taylor haven't been on the same page for much of the season. Maybe Ryan's adamancy on getting him the ball more will lead Taylor to targeting Watkins in the coming weeks.

"We got to look at that," Ryan said. "As we're moving forward, start taking advantage of this young man."

Watkins said this week that he just wants wins instead of targets, but he's getting neither of late. With Sean Smith, Marcus Peters and the Kansas City Chiefs on the schedule next, getting Watkins the ball more often won't be easy.