Rodgers sparkles in his first home start since his injury to lead Jets to 24-3 win over Patriots
Rodgers Shines in Homecoming, Jets Dominate Patriots 24-3
AP, Sep 19, 2024
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Aaron Rodgers dazzled in his first home start since his injury, throwing two touchdown passes as the New York Jets cruised to a 24-3 victory over the New England Patriots in their home opener Thursday night.
The 40-year-old quarterback made his return to MetLife Stadium after suffering a torn Achilles tendon in last year's opener. Rodgers showed no signs of the injury or fatigue from playing three games in 11 days, executing deft scrambles and precision throws that carved through New England’s defense.
He completed 27 of 35 passes for 281 yards, connecting with Garrett Wilson and Allen Lazard for touchdowns while the Jets (2-1) snapped an eight-game home losing streak against the Patriots (1-2). The crowd erupted in chants of “Aa-ron! Rod-gers!” as he led the team to victory.
New York's defense was relentless, sacking Jacoby Brissett five times and limiting the Patriots to just 40 yards in the first half — their lowest output since 2000. In the closing minutes, Drake Maye, the No. 3 overall pick, made his NFL debut, replacing Brissett.
Breece Hall added a rushing touchdown, marking the Jets’ first win in a Thursday night game in six attempts.
Rodgers received a thunderous ovation as he jogged onto the field and quickly had the fans on their feet. After an initial drive stalled, he expertly navigated the Jets down the field, aided by a crucial 15-yard penalty against Jahlani Tavai for a rough tackle on Hall.
On the next series, Rodgers connected with Lazard for a 13-yard touchdown, marking his first touchdown pass at home for the Jets.
The Jets continued to dominate, capping a 91-yard drive with Hall’s 1-yard touchdown run, which was upheld after a video review.
The Patriots managed to get on the board with a 44-yard field goal, but New York responded with another touchdown as Rodgers found Wilson in the end zone for a 21-3 lead in the third quarter.
A fumble recovery by Chuck Clark set up a 28-yard field goal by Greg Zuerlein, solidifying the Jets’ advantage.
Overall, New York outgained New England 252 yards to 40 in the first half, underscoring their dominance throughout the game.