Jets Cruise to Dominant Win Over Patriots, Aaron Rodgers Shines in Return to MetLife

The New York Jets secured their second win of the season with a commanding 24-3 victory over the New England Patriots on Thursday night at MetLife Stadium. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers stole the show in his triumphant return, showcasing his trademark precision and leading the Jets to back-to-back victories.

Key Takeaways: Jets (2-1)

Aaron Rodgers was back to his vintage form, making his second home opener in New York far more memorable than last year’s injury-plagued debut. The 40-year-old quarterback impressed fans with his pinpoint accuracy and a variety of off-platform throws, racking up 281 yards and two touchdowns on 27-of-35 passing.

MetLife Stadium was buzzing as Rodgers orchestrated the offense with ease, spreading the ball around to eight different receivers. His mobility, which had been questioned earlier in the season, looked sharper as he navigated the pocket smoothly, even with just three days’ rest between games. By the third quarter, the crowd was chanting Rodgers’ name, a stark contrast to the eerie silence of last season’s opener when he ruptured his Achilles on the fourth play of the year.

Rodgers’ performance bodes well for the Jets, who entered the season with high expectations. With Rodgers in sync, the Jets appear capable of achieving their Super Bowl aspirations.

Utter Domination

The Jets controlled the game from start to finish, holding the ball for over 40 minutes and outgaining the Patriots by more than 250 yards (400-139). The defense suffocated New England’s offense, which struggled to find any rhythm. This lopsided effort left little doubt as to who the dominant team was.

Jets’ Pass Rush Steps Up

Despite missing key defenders like Jermaine Johnson (Achilles injury) and Haason Reddick (contract holdout), the Jets’ pass rush was relentless. Defensive end Will McDonald IV led the charge with 2.5 sacks, bringing his season total to 5.5 sacks in just three games. The team finished the game with seven sacks on Patriots quarterback Jacoby Brissett, pushing their season total to an impressive 14.

While the Jets’ defense looked formidable, it’s worth noting that they’ve faced relatively weak offenses in back-to-back weeks with games against the Patriots and Titans. However, the pass rush is showing signs of returning to its top-five form from last season.

Breakout Performances by Lazard and Conklin

Wide receiver Allen Lazard and tight end Tyler Conklin both delivered standout performances. Lazard, who struggled last season after signing a four-year, $44 million contract, has found new life with Rodgers at the helm. He caught a 10-yard touchdown in the first quarter—his third score of the season—and finished with three catches for 48 yards.

Conklin, who had been quiet in the first two games, erupted with five receptions for 93 yards, providing Rodgers with a reliable target in the middle of the field. With star receiver Garrett Wilson drawing extra attention from defenses, both Lazard and Conklin have stepped up to provide the Jets with valuable secondary options in the passing game.

Room for Improvement

Although Rodgers and Wilson connected on a 2-yard touchdown pass, their chemistry still appears to be a work in progress. They were out of sync on several routes, with Rodgers targeting Wilson nine times but only completing four passes. Covered by cornerback Christian Gonzalez for much of the game, Wilson has had a relatively slow start to his third NFL season. Rodgers and Wilson will need to build a stronger connection as the season progresses.

Looking Ahead: Next Game vs. Denver Broncos (Sept. 29, 1 p.m. ET)

Patriots Struggle to Keep Pace, Fall to 1-2

The New England Patriots’ early season momentum came to a screeching halt Thursday night in their lopsided loss to the Jets. Despite playing competitive football in their first two games, New England was completely outmatched by New York, both offensively and defensively.

Offensive Woes Continue

The Patriots’ offense was anemic from the start. Jacoby Brissett was under constant pressure behind a patchwork offensive line, and the team’s four first downs in the first half marked their fewest in a half since 2000. By halftime, the Patriots had only 40 yards of total offense and were outgained by a staggering 212 yards.

Brissett, who was sacked five times, never found his rhythm, often scrambling to escape the Jets’ pass rush. The Patriots were forced to start rookie Caedan Wallace at left tackle due to injuries, and his inexperience showed, as he committed back-to-back holding penalties in the second half. It was a long night for the Patriots’ offensive line, which struggled to protect Brissett throughout the game.

Defensive Struggles

New England’s defense, which had performed admirably in the first two weeks of the season, was unable to contain Rodgers and the Jets. Rodgers’ quick release and pinpoint accuracy made it difficult for the Patriots to generate pressure, especially without linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley (torn pectoral muscle). The secondary, despite having all starters available, failed to prevent big plays, allowing Rodgers to pick apart the defense.

This marks the second consecutive week the Patriots’ defense has struggled against the pass, and head coach Jerod Mayo emphasized the need for better fundamentals in the post-game press conference. The lack of pass rush and poor tackling were glaring issues that New England must address moving forward.

Brissett’s Tough Night

Brissett’s performance was hindered by shaky protection, but he missed a crucial opportunity in the first quarter when he overthrew tight end Austin Hooper down the left sideline. His accuracy faltered under pressure, and the offense never found its footing. Rookie quarterback Drake Maye made his NFL debut late in the fourth quarter, going 4-for-8 for 22 yards, but was also sacked twice in his limited action.

Next Game: at San Francisco 49ers (Sept. 29, 4:05 p.m. ET)

The Patriots have a tough road ahead as they look to rebound from Thursday’s loss with a matchup against the undefeated San Francisco 49ers.