The Jets may have discovered their stride in the second half of their 21-13 victory over the
on Thursday night. They outperformed the AFC South-leading Texans 21-6 in the final 30 minutes, improving their record to 3-6 with a crucial win.
Interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich remarked, “When you play like that, it builds confidence and energy, both of which are vital moving forward. There was certainly a sense of hope as we entered the second half, and putting it all together gave us a feeling that we could really achieve this. I believe this will propel us forward.”
In the first half, the Texans outgained the Jets significantly (201 to 69) and converted 4 of 9 third downs, while the Jets managed just 1 of 6. An early second-quarter play by rookie WR Malachi Corley, who had an 18-yard run to the Houston 1, ended in a touchback when he fumbled before crossing the goal line. However, Ulbrich maintained that his team’s belief remained strong, and he was encouraged by a run game that produced 55 yards on seven carries in the first half.
“After halftime, we recognized that the run game was working well in the first half,” Ulbrich noted. “We knew we had to keep that going. Once we did, it opened up the passing game, lightening the box and allowing Aaron (Rodgers) to operate effectively. He performed as expected.”
In the second half, the Jets came out aggressively, scoring touchdowns on their first three offensive possessions, achieving 12 first downs and totaling 226 yards of offense. The defense also kept the pressure on C.J. Stroud, recording four sacks in each half.
Rodgers, who had a disappointing first half with just 32 passing yards on 7-of-14 attempts, bounced back with an impressive performance, throwing for 179 yards and three touchdowns in the second half. He connected with WR Garrett Wilson for two incredible one-handed touchdown catches and linked up with WR Davante Adams for a 37-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter that sealed the victory.
“Last night was about transforming pressure into confidence and momentum,” Ulbrich said. “There’s a significant difference between the two. In my view, productive pressure can motivate you to work harder and be more thorough, while sometimes it can feel burdensome. A little success can turn into positive energy for the future.”
The touchdown connection between Rodgers and Adams marked the 69th of their careers and was Adams’ first since being traded to New York in Week 7. Adams had a strong game with seven receptions for 91 yards, helping the team regain its momentum after halftime.
“He’s one of the best teammates and people I’ve ever known,” Ulbrich stated. “His impact on this locker room is immeasurable. He influences everyone, from offense to defense to special teams. He’s a true force multiplier, bringing out the best in others. We’re fortunate to have him.”
After this victory, the Jets will have the weekend off before heading to Arizona to face the Cardinals (4-4) next Sunday. Over the first nine weeks of the season, the Jets played five primetime games, not counting their standalone match in London. Their Week 10 game against Arizona marks the beginning of a seven-game stretch with only one primetime matchup scheduled, a Sunday Night Football game against the Colts in Week 11.
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