Streak-buster in the Snow: Jets Bury Belichick's Patriots to End Season
The New York Jets ended an ugly season by notching an ugly win over the New England Patriots in the snow at Gillette Stadium.
The 17-3 defense-dominated victory slammed the brakes on the Jets' 15-game losing streak in the series with the AFC East rival Pats. It's New York's first win over Bill Belichick's team since December 27, 2015.
The Jets (7-10) more than doubled up the Patriots (4-13) in yardage gained, building a 254-119 advantage. Running back Breece Hall single-handedly out-gained New England by rushing 37 times for 178 yards in wintry conditions. He added 12 yards on two receptions.
The game was without a touchdown until Hall ripped off a 50-yard scoring scamper with 1:57 remaining in the fourth quarter. The second-year running back converted the subsequent two-point conversion, pushing the Jets' lead to a seemingly insurmountable 17-3.
While the Jets' offense managed only 13 first downs, the Patriots were even more inefficient. New York's defense limited Bailey Zappe and Co. to 2.1 net yards per play and six total first downs.
The Jets permitted only one third-down conversion in 14 attempts. New England also went 0-for-3 on fourth down plays. Linebacker Quincy Williams recorded a team-high eight tackles while safeties Ashtyn Davis and Tony Adams both picked off passes from Zappe.
Gang Green sacked Zappe seven times throughout the day. Defensive tackle Quinnen Williams and edge rusher Bryce Huff had 2.0 sacks apiece.
The game began as a punt fest with the first five possessions ending with the offense kicking it away. The Jets finally broke the stalemate on the game's sixth possession, cashing in on a short field.
After Thomas Morstead pinned the Pats inside their own 5-yardline, the home team was forced to punt it back to the Jets, who started their third drive at New England's 38-yard line. New York stalled at the 3-yard line, settling for a 21-yard field goal from Greg Zuerlein to break the ice. Zuerlein made a trio of three-pointers on Sunday with his lone miss coming from 49 yards in poor kicking conditions.
Making his third consecutive start in place of the concussed Zach Wilson, Jets' quarterback Trevor Siemian went 8-of-20 passing for 70 yards and a 50.0 QB rating.
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