The Patriots led 13-3 after the first half of today’s game against the Jets. Taking advantage of 3 interceptions, the Patriots were able to take over a few possessions with good field position. With three turnovers in favor of the Patriots, holding the team to only 13 points and a 10 point lead was a positive for the Jets.
Offensively the Patriots could not get into a rhythm as the first half went on. This was partly due to the Jets having 3 first half sacks, not letting the Patriots QB remain comfortable in the pocket to deliver the ball downfield. Nonetheless, Mac Jones and the Patriots were able to withstand a successful defensive half by the Jets without committing a turnover, a huge area of focus this week at practice. James White scored the only touchdown of the half with a seven-yard touchdown run. Nick Folk was two for two on-field goals in the first half, accounting for nearly half of the Patriots points
The Jets opened the second half with their fourth interception of the game, giving the Patriots another drive in which they started with good field position. The offense capitalized with a monster 26-yard touchdown run by Damien Harris, plowing his way through the goal-line with help from his offensive line. A third and fourth field goal by Nick Folk capped off the scoring for the Patriots and gave him the Patriots franchise record for consecutive makes at 33.
The offensive line had some issues in this game. Yasir Durant filled in for Trent Brown at right tackle after Brown became a late scratch dealing with a calf injury. Poor play from Durant led to his replacement. Justin Herron got the nod. However, Herron got injured shortly after entering the game. While the Patriots do have depth on their offensive line, getting their starting right tackle healthy is key to building some sense of continuity and familiarity among the group.
Defensively, the Patriots held the Jets to zero touchdowns on the day and only six points total. Forcing turnovers early in drives, the defense was able to provide multiple short fields for the Patriots offense, nearly assuring a field goal every time. The Jets did have success running the ball in spots, and if they had not gone away from this, the score may have been a bit closer. Trailing and needing points, Zach Wilson was forced to throw the ball more and more. This was a recipe of success for the Patriots. However, some work will need to be done to sure up that run defense as the Patriots begin to face teams with even better running games.
Ball security from the quarterback and running back was the overarching difference in this game. While he threw for under 200 yards, Jones was an effective 22/30 in this game. Sound decision-making from him led the Patriots to a turnover-free game, a clear objective for the Patriots after a number of giveaways in week one. The Patriots kept a safe offensive game plan, relying on what they do well through check-down, play-action, and power runs. Some struggles in the red-zone still exist, as the Patriots ended four different drives with field goals instead of touchdowns. With a lead and a defense playing well, all the Patriots had to do was play smart and secure field goals at the very least, extending the lead beyond reach. This game was a classic example of good, aggressive defense aiding the offense to be set up for successful drives.
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