Jets Defeat Patriots in OT and Now Control Playoff Destiny

(Matt Stone – Boston Herald)

For fifth straight week, with their backs against the wall, the New York Jets have found a way to win. This time, they beat the Patriots 26-20 in a confusing overtime thriller.

The Jets now control their own destiny for a playoff spot since the Pittsburgh Steelers lost to the Baltimore Ravens, 20-17. The only thing that stands in the way of a trip to the playoffs for the Jets is Rex Ryan and the Bills. But, before the Jets head up to Buffalo for the final game of the regular season, let’s take a look at some takeaways from the win over New England.

Ryan Fitzpatrick – Fitzpatrick has absolutely found his stride. He has been better and better as the season went on and he is peaking at the right time. At this point in the season, he flirts with 300 passing yards every single game, as he did against the Patriots with 296 yards to go along with three touchdown passes and no interceptions. He did however have one fumble which was returned for a touchdown. But overall, it was another solid game from Fitzpatrick. He also comes up big in big situations like he did in the close game against the Patriots, Cowboys, and Giants. He has become more reliable than we all could have imagined. Remember when Geno Smith was the starting quarterback? That wasn’t too long ago. The quarterback position has come a long way.

Defense – It is no easy task when you are given the responsibility of limiting Tom Brady. But the Jets defense was able to hold him to just 231 yards, one touchdown pass, and one interception courtesy of Darrelle Revis. And the defense essentially held the Patriots to just 13 points because the other seven came from the Patriots’ defense. And 13 offensive points is the fewest they have scored all season. The Jets may have only had two sacks, but they put constant pressure on Brady and they made him make some tough, contested throws. Especially in the second half when the Patriots’ offensive line was beat up due to injuries.

Receiving Core – Starting off with Brandon Marshall, this man has been an unbelievable addition for the Jets this season. With his eight reception, 115 yard, and two touchdown performance against the Pats, Marshall picked up his ninth 100+ yard game of the season. Not too bad for a sixth round pick that the Jets traded to the Bears. But Marshall is not the only one getting the job done for the Jets. Quincy Enunwa finished with 69 yards, Eric Decker finished with 47 yards and a touchdown, Kenbrell Thompkins and Bilal Powell had receptions as well. Fitzpatrick has done a really good job of late spreading the wealth and not relying on Marshall.

It was a great win by the Jets. They now find themselves in a “win and you’re in” scenario next week as they head to Buffalo. Rex Ryan will be doing everything and anything possible to spoil the Jets playoff hopes so the Jets cannot take next Sunday’s game lightly. Don’t let it be a trap game. But with the way the Jets have played lately, there is no reason the believe that that they will fold under pressure.