For the second consecutive game, the New England Patriots used some late game rushing to secure victories, this time a 30-21 victory over the New York Jets at Gillette Stadium. Tom Brady went 24-33 for 321 yards with a touchdown and an interception. Benjarvis Green-Ellis had a career high 136 yards on 27 carries including 2 touchdowns. Wes Welker, the NFL leader with 40 receptions and 616 yards, was “held” to 5 receptions for 124 yards including a spectacular 73 yd reception. Deion Branch added 7 receptions to lead both sides, while the Tight End combo combined for 9 receptions for 87 yards.
The Jets caught a major break at the end of the half when a Brady pass went right off the hands of Aaron Hernandez and into the hands of Antonio Cromartie for the interception. Brady has now thrown 6 interceptions on the season, but at least 4 were on fluke plays where the defender was in the right place making super plays. Defensively the Patriots had their best game, holding the Jets offense to only 255 total yards and had 7-3 and outs. They did however show some signs of the inability to cover and tackle.
Overall this was the best showing on both sides of the ball. The running game is giving the Patriots more balance and taking pressure off Brady to outscore the opponents. The defense was able to force 3 and outs and make some tight stands. The expression “Bend but not break” has been used to describe the Patriots defense, but today the defense stepped up for a great overall showing.
The Patriots will now get ready to face the Cowboys next Sunday at Gillette. Dallas lost last week 34-30 after blowing a 27-3 lead shortly into the 3rd quarter to the Detroit Lions and have not played particularly well all season.
NOTE: The New England Patriots have now scored 30+ points in 13 straight regular season games. The NFL record is 14 set by the 1999-2000 St. Louis Rams.