Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
The Patriots picked up their first win of the season, beating the New York 15-10 in a defensive struggle. The offense had its moments, but they sputtered in the second half.
Despite that, the defense did what they needed to do down the stretch to keep New York out of the end zone.
Here are seven points on the Patriots win.
1. Defense thrives: The Patriots defense has been good thus far this season but today, they were dominate. They limited the Jets to just 195 yards of total offense, 10 points and they sacked Zach Wilson three times. It was another big time performance for a group that has carried the team thus far.
2. Offensive line was better: The offensive line was better this week. They struggled last Sunday night and despite having their hands full in this match up, they stepped up and played better than expected. They will need play even better next week against Dallas.
3. Ezekiel Elliott finally involved: The Patriots finally got Ezekiel Elliott invoked. He was the primary ball carrier in the fourth quarter as the Patriots tried to chew clock. Elliott finished with 80 yards on 16 carries. His increased role is a good thing but it will be interesting to see how involved he is moving forward especially next week against his former team.
4. Mac had his moments: Mac Jones had his moments today. He made some good throws early but was inconsistent as a whole. Jones was better in the first half than the second half but he never got into a rhythm. The weather and a commitment to the running was part of the reason but Jones needs to be better next week.
5. Depleted secondary holds up: With Jonathan Jones, Marcus Jones and Jack Jones out, the Patriots secondary was thin coming into this game. The group as a whole stepped up however and played well. Jabrill Peppers was all over the field. He made plays in all three levels and even returned punts. Christian Gonzalez did a terrific job covering Garrett Wilson. Myles Bryant played outside corner and made plays when called on. The Patriots needed this group to hold their own today and they did.
6. Pharaoh Brown: Quick. Who has the biggest play of the Patriots season thus far? Anyone? The answer is Pharaoh Brown. Brown scored on a 58 yard touchdown pass this season. He is the Patriots third tight end. He took advantage of the Patriots usage of 13 personnel today and made a big play. Brown won’t be this involved most of the season but it is nice to see that when his number is called, he can make plays.
7. Make it 15 in a row: The Patriots have now won 15 in a row against the Jets. Given the current state of the Jets, it might end up 16 in a row after the two teams meet on New Years Day. The Jets are a mess.