Aaron Rodgers shines in Jets' victory over Patriots

 Sep 20, 2024, 08:55 AM

 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. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers dazzled in his return to MetLife Stadium, throwing two touchdowns in the first half as the crowd erupted with chants of his name.

Here are the key takeaways from Thursday night for both teams:

**New York Jets (2-1)**

It was vintage Aaron Rodgers as the Jets secured a dominant win in his second home opener, a far cry from last season's heartbreak. Rodgers dazzled the MetLife Stadium crowd, throwing for 281 yards and 2 touchdowns in the Jets' second straight victory. By the third quarter, fans were chanting his name, a stark contrast to last season’s opener when Rodgers ruptured his Achilles just four snaps in.

Rodgers (27-for-35) spread the ball to eight different receivers, showing impressive mobility in and out of the pocket, especially on a short week. This performance reinforces the Jets' Super Bowl aspirations, as Rodgers’ play makes anything seem possible for the team.

**Game summary in two words:** Utter domination. The Jets controlled the ball for over 40 minutes and outgained the Patriots 400-139.

**Promising trend:** The Jets’ pass rush, even without key players like Jermaine Johnson and Haason Reddick, was relentless. Will McDonald IV led the charge with 2.5 sacks, bringing his season total to 5.5. The defense finished with seven sacks, raising their season total to 14, though it’s worth noting they’ve faced two weaker offenses in the Patriots and Titans.

**Key performances:** Allen Lazard, who had struggled last year, looked rejuvenated with Rodgers, catching three passes for 48 yards and a touchdown. Tight end Tyler Conklin also had a breakout game with five receptions for 93 yards, proving to be a valuable secondary target when Garrett Wilson was quieter.

**Biggest flaw:** Rodgers and Garrett Wilson still seem to be ironing out their chemistry, with a few missed connections. While Wilson did catch a 2-yard touchdown, he had a quiet night, drawing nine targets while being covered by cornerback Christian Gonzalez.

**Next game:** vs. Denver Broncos (1 p.m. ET, Sunday, Sept. 29)

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**New England Patriots (1-2)**

Any positive momentum the Patriots had built in their first two games disappeared in a one-sided defeat. While Rodgers and the Jets cruised, Jacoby Brissett and the Patriots struggled mightily, gaining just 40 yards and four first downs in the first half, their worst offensive showing since 2000.

Brissett was sacked five times and looked uncomfortable throughout, facing constant pressure from a weakened offensive line. Rookie Caedan Wallace, starting at left tackle, struggled, especially during a second-half drive where he committed back-to-back holding penalties.

**Game summary in two words:** Thoroughly overmatched. From the opening kickoff, the Patriots never looked competitive.

**Biggest flaw:** Fundamentals, specifically blocking and tackling, failed the Patriots. The offensive line allowed free rushers to Brissett, while the defense missed tackles and took poor angles, something head coach Jerod Mayo had emphasized as key in Thursday games.

**Quarterback breakdown:** Brissett was under siege all night due to poor protection. His most regrettable play came in the first quarter when he overthrew tight end Austin Hooper on what could have been a big gain. Rookie quarterback Drake Maye made his NFL debut late in the fourth quarter, going 4-for-8 for 22 yards and getting sacked twice.

**Troubling trend:** For the second straight week, the Patriots' defense struggled to contain the pass, especially against a quick, accurate passer like Rodgers. The absence of linebacker Ja'Whaun Bentley was felt, and the secondary couldn’t maintain its usual high standard, allowing Rodgers to pick them apart.

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