The New England Patriots extended their remarkable winning streak to eight games with a convincing 27-14 victory over their divisional rivals, the New York Jets, on a chilly Thursday night.
Rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson was the undisputed star of the show, scoring a career-high three touchdowns to propel the Patriots to a 9-2 record, guaranteeing their first winning season since 2021.
Henderson Shines in Stevenson's Absence
With lead rusher Rhamondre Stevenson sidelined for a third consecutive game due to a toe injury, Henderson seized his opportunity. He logged a career-high 19 rushing attempts for 62 yards, matching his two-touchdown performance from the previous week. Not content with his work on the ground, Henderson also caught a touchdown pass from quarterback Drake Maye.
Maye delivered a solid and controlled performance, completing 25 of 34 passes for 281 yards and a touchdown. His favourite target was Stefon Diggs, who racked up nine catches for 105 yards, marking his third 100-yard game this season.
Overall, the Patriots offence compiled 336 total yards, effectively moving the ball in damp conditions, while their defence held the Jets to just 245 yards.
Jets' Struggles Continue
The New York Jets' offence sputtered once again, with quarterback Justin Fields struggling through the air. He completed 15 of 26 passes for a meagre 116 yards and one touchdown pass to John Metchie III. Fields was more effective with his legs, leading the Jets in rushing with 67 yards and a touchdown on 11 carries.
The Jets' woes were compounded by the loss of top receiver Garrett Wilson, who was placed on injured reserve with a knee injury earlier in the day. The team was also plagued by penalties and ill-timed mistakes, including a first-half collision between defenders that knocked a potential interception from their grasp.
The game ended with the Jets on the New England 15-yard line, trailing by 13 points with just over two minutes to play. A fourth-down pass from Fields to tight end Jeremy Ruckert was broken up, sealing the Patriots' victory.
Patriots March Towards Playoffs
This victory holds significant weight for the Patriots franchise. Their eight-game winning streak matches their longest since Tom Brady's final season with the team in 2019. Furthermore, their 3-0 record in AFC East games is their best start within the division since that same year.
Pending other results this weekend, first-year coach Mike Vrabel's squad now holds the best record in the NFL. The win guarantees a winning season and puts the Patriots in a commanding position as they continue their push for the playoffs.
