Jets coach Rex Ryan walks away from a disappointing 29-26 overtime loss to the Patriots, one that the Jets could have won but didn't. (US Presswire) |
The Jets waged a better fight than anyone expected against the Patriots, but they finally succumbed in overtime in Foxboro with the Patriots taking the victory 29-26. The offense moved the ball well and the defense did a decent job controlling QB Tom Brady, but at the end of the day, the Jets made just enough mistakes to put the victory in the Patriots’ hands.
Offense: B
The Jets came out firing, scoring on their first drive. RB Shonn Greene had just 54 yards on the ground, but the team put up a total of 403 yards. QB Mark Sanchez had a more than solid game, going 28-of-41, 328 yards, with one touchdown and one interception. However, the interception on the goal line and the drop by WR Stephen Hill in the fourth quarter turned out to be too critical to overcome. Previous game’s grade: A-
Defense: B
They gave QB Tom Brady and the Patriots a run for their money. They dealt well with the Patriots no-huddle, which complicates the team’s ability to make substitutions. But, when it counted -- in the fourth quarter -- they allowed New England’s offense to get in position for the tying field goal. They had no interceptions. Previous game’s grade: A-
Special teams: B+
Allowing a kickoff return for a TD immediately following the Jets’ first score wasn’t the special teams’ best moment. K Nick Folk earned his paycheck, making four of four field goals, three of which were for over 40 yards. P Robert Malone continues to give the team good field position. Previous game’s grade: A
Coaching: B-
Offensive coordinator Tony Sparano seems to have settled into play calling that works better for his personnel – except for the use of QB Tim Tebow. Where did he go? DC Mike Pettine’s defense was more prepared for Brady and Co. than anyone anticipated. Previous game’s grade: A
Stay dialed in on the Jets by following correspondent Lisa Zimmerman on Twitter @CBSJets and @LisaZimmerman.