Aaron Rodgers dazzles in Jets' win over Patriots
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — The New York Jets secured their second win of the season on Thursday night, defeating the New England Patriots 24-3. Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers dazzled the MetLife Stadium crowd in his return, throwing two touchdowns and leading his team to a dominant performance.
Rodgers delivered a vintage performance, passing for 281 yards and two touchdowns, completing 27 of 35 attempts. He distributed the ball efficiently, connecting with eight different receivers, and moved with much more mobility than in his previous two games, despite playing on just three days’ rest. The 40-year-old quarterback’s impressive showing reaffirmed the Jets' Super Bowl hopes, as the crowd chanted his name by the end of the third quarter.
Game Summary: Jets Dominate
The Jets controlled the game from the start, outgaining the Patriots 400-139 and holding possession for over 40 minutes. The Jets' pass rush, despite missing key players, was relentless, sacking Patriots quarterback Jacoby Brissett seven times. Defensive end Will McDonald IV led the charge with 2.5 sacks, bringing his season total to 5.5.
Rodgers’ connection with former Green Bay Packers teammate Allen Lazard was a highlight, with Lazard scoring on a 10-yard touchdown pass. Tight end Tyler Conklin also had a breakout game, catching five passes for 93 yards. However, Rodgers and star receiver Garrett Wilson are still working through chemistry issues, despite Wilson scoring a 2-yard touchdown.
Patriots Struggles
For the Patriots, it was a rough night. Brissett was under constant pressure, managing just 40 yards of offense in the first half and being sacked five times. The Patriots' offensive line struggled, with rookie Caedan Wallace filling in at left tackle and committing multiple penalties. New England’s defense, which had been solid in previous games, couldn’t stop Rodgers’ quick release and accurate passing.
Rookie quarterback Drake Maye made his NFL debut late in the fourth quarter, going 4-for-8 for 22 yards but was sacked twice.
Rodgers Shines on Emotional Return
Rodgers' return to MetLife Stadium, the site of his season-ending Achilles injury last year, was emotional but triumphant. In a viral moment during the game, Rodgers playfully pushed head coach Robert Saleh away after Saleh attempted to hug him following a touchdown. Rodgers explained it wasn’t time to celebrate yet, as he wanted to stay focused.
Rodgers became the fourth quarterback in NFL history to complete 75% of his passes for over 250 yards at age 40 or older, joining Tom Brady, Drew Brees, and Brett Favre. His mobility and ability to make plays outside the pocket were key to the Jets' success.
"This was the first step in playing like I know I can," Rodgers said. "I felt like my old self."
The Jets, now 2-1, look forward to their next matchup against the Denver Broncos. For the Patriots, their next challenge will be facing the San Francisco 49ers, hoping to rebound from this tough loss.
The Jets controlled the game from the start, outgaining the Patriots 400-139 and holding possession for over 40 minutes. The Jets' pass rush, despite missing key players, was relentless, sacking Patriots quarterback Jacoby Brissett seven times. Defensive end Will McDonald IV led the charge with 2.5 sacks, bringing his season total to 5.5.
Rodgers’ connection with former Green Bay Packers teammate Allen Lazard was a highlight, with Lazard scoring on a 10-yard touchdown pass. Tight end Tyler Conklin also had a breakout game, catching five passes for 93 yards. However, Rodgers and star receiver Garrett Wilson are still working through chemistry issues, despite Wilson scoring a 2-yard touchdown.
Patriots Struggles
For the Patriots, it was a rough night. Brissett was under constant pressure, managing just 40 yards of offense in the first half and being sacked five times. The Patriots' offensive line struggled, with rookie Caedan Wallace filling in at left tackle and committing multiple penalties. New England’s defense, which had been solid in previous games, couldn’t stop Rodgers’ quick release and accurate passing.
Rookie quarterback Drake Maye made his NFL debut late in the fourth quarter, going 4-for-8 for 22 yards but was sacked twice.
Rodgers Shines on Emotional Return
Rodgers' return to MetLife Stadium, the site of his season-ending Achilles injury last year, was emotional but triumphant. In a viral moment during the game, Rodgers playfully pushed head coach Robert Saleh away after Saleh attempted to hug him following a touchdown. Rodgers explained it wasn’t time to celebrate yet, as he wanted to stay focused.
Rodgers became the fourth quarterback in NFL history to complete 75% of his passes for over 250 yards at age 40 or older, joining Tom Brady, Drew Brees, and Brett Favre. His mobility and ability to make plays outside the pocket were key to the Jets' success.
"This was the first step in playing like I know I can," Rodgers said. "I felt like my old self."
The Jets, now 2-1, look forward to their next matchup against the Denver Broncos. For the Patriots, their next challenge will be facing the San Francisco 49ers, hoping to rebound from this tough loss.
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