The New York Jets comfortably defeated their divisional rival, the New England Patriots, 24-3, kicking off Week 3 of the NFL. This was the Jets’ first home game of the season and marked Aaron Rodgers’ return to MetLife Stadium after suffering a season-ending injury just four plays into Week 1 last year. Rodgers looked like his old self, completing 27 of 35 passes (77.14%) for 281 yards and two touchdowns. Breece Hall added 83 total yards and a touchdown, while tight end Tyler Conklin racked up 93 yards on five catches. Wide receiver Garrett Wilson, despite only 33 yards, scored his first touchdown of the season in the third quarter.
Rodgers Praises Wilson’s Performance
In the post-game press conference, Rodgers was asked about Wilson’s performance after scoring his first touchdown of the season. Rodgers praised Wilson‘s talent, pointing out how opposing defenses have been focused on shutting him down in all three games. “In all three games, you know, they’re shading, stud corners. You look at Ward in Week 1, Snead in Week 2, and then Gonzalez in Week 3. Not a lot of single coverage.” Despite the attention Wilson has received, he leads the team in both yards and targets. He also had some words for Mel Kiper, after Kiper mentioned that they should ban having two safetys too high, believing it to be the reason so few touchdown passes have been thrown this season. ” It’s been Mel Kiper’s worst nightmare. A lot of Cover 2“
Aaron Rodgers throws shade at Mel Kiper and praised Garrett Wilson’s work.
Rodgers has also leaned on players like Breece Hall, Allen Lazard, and Tyler Conklin. Hall has had a strong start to the season, leading the team in receptions and scoring three touchdowns. Lazard, another familiar face for Rodgers from their Green Bay days, already has three touchdown catches. Both he and Conklin have surpassed 100 receiving yards so far this season. Meanwhile, former Clemson and Chargers receiver Mike Williams is just finding his rhythm but could soon become a key piece in the offense. With Rodgers’ veteran presence and a variety of offensive playmakers, the Jets have a real shot at challenging the Buffalo Bills, who have dominated the AFC East with four consecutive divisional titles.
What’s Next for the Jets?
The Jets will have extra time to prepare for their next game against the Denver Broncos, whose struggling offense is similar to the Patriots’. A win seems likely. However, the following stretch will be much tougher. They face Minnesota Vikings on the road, then a crucial home game against the Bills, which the Jets must win if they want to be taken seriously. After that, they head to Pittsburgh to take on one of the league’s top defenses. Ao it’s a positive start for the Jets but we still have a long season ahead of us and we know that anything can happen.
