Coming off a bye week after being shellacked by the Titans hoping to avoid back-to-back losses. Well, they did just that as they defeated their rival Jets for the fifth consecutive time 27-13. They had gotten off to a rough start with 11 penalties for 105 yards that could’ve resulted in a bigger victory. At 8-3, it’s the 18th straight year that the Pats will have at least a .500 record.
Tom Brady continues to make more history as he surpasses Peyton Manning as the all-time passing yards leader (including playoffs). Additionally, he reached 3,000 passing yards for the 16th straight year. This shows why he’s the greatest quarterback of all time. But that wasn’t the main reason they won.
Sony Michel Steals the Show Against the Jets
The Running Game
Everybody knows that the Patriots are led by Brady, Bill Belichick, and Rob Gronkowski. But against a Jets defense, it was their running game that stole the headlines. That was in part due to the team’s first-round pick out of Georgia, Sony Michel. Michel was the top performer of the day as he ran for a career-high 133 yards on 20 carries and a touchdown. He’s known for his power and speed as an in-between tackles runner.
Additionally, James White also had a good day on the ground as he had 73 yards on nine carries (8.3 average). In total, the Patriots ran for 215 yards that helped give balance to the passing game. Heading into December where the weather gets colder, it’s important to get the ground game. Also, Rex Burkhead will be back next week coming off injured reserve to add to the running attack. All three backs are versatile with their running and receiving skills to help Brady out.
Gronk is Back
With their running game working on Sunday, a familiar face was on the field for the first time in three weeks. His name is Rob Gronkowski and he was sorely missed. He showed his worth as he had a 34-yard touchdown catch in the first quarter. He went deep down the field and splitting two Jets defenders on that score. Although Gronk would only catch three balls for 56 yards, his presence opened up everything for the offense.
Other than Sony Michel and the running game, Julian Edelman benefitted from Gronk. He had four receptions for 84 yards, including a 21-yard catch-and-run touchdown in the third quarter. Josh Gordon, who was the team’s leading receiver for the past few weeks, had 70 yards on five catches. Let’s hope that Gronk can finally stay healthy because they’re a different team when he’s on the field.
The Last Word
With all the elements listed above, the Patriots can compete with the high scoring offenses like the Chiefs, Saints, Rams, and Steelers. This is a great start off the bye week as they head to the final stretch of the season. Next, they’re on to Minnesota as they host the Vikings who are fighting for their playoff lives.
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