EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – The Patriots improved to a perfect 7-0 as they defeated the Jets 33-0. Defensive domination was the story as the Patriots shutout an opponent for the second time this season. Here's what we can take away from tonight's game.
STOCK UP
1. Defense – Once again, the defense showed up. Sam Darnold even said in his mic'ed up segment on the ESPN broadcast that he was "seeing ghosts". That's what the New England defense does to opponents. Tonight they created five turnovers. Devin McCourty got the party started with an interception in the first quarter. The pick led to a Patriots' field goal. Later in the first half, John Simon added a strip sack that was recovered by Kyle Van Noy. The turnover put the Patriots offense in Jets' territory and led to a New England touchdown. Duron Harmon, Stephon Gilmore, and Terrance Brooks each added interceptions. Harmon and Brooks intercepted Darnold in the end zone preserve the shutout.
2. Jakobi Meyers – The Brady-Meyers connection took another step in the right direction. The rookie caught all five passes Brady threw his way and gained 47 yards. Brady needs more weapons to work with, and as Meyers starts to earn the quarterback's trust, the rookie could create a larger opportunity for himself.
3. Chase Winovich – The rookie flashed a bit tonight putting pressure on Darnold. In the third quarter, it was pressure by Winovich that led to the Brooks interception in the end zone.
4. James White – White has become Mr. Reliable for an anemic Patriots offense. Don't be deceived by the Patriots 33 points. The offense struggled. However, time and time again, White has been there in crucial situations. He led the way for Patriots receivers, connecting with Brady seven times for 59 yards.
STOCK DOWN
1. J.C. Jackson – It wasn't the best night for Patriots cornerback J.C. Jackson. His aggressive style of play caught up to him. The second year was called for three penalties. Two of the penalties were for pass interference. The other penalty was for holding.
2. Penalties – After a relatively clean first half of play, flags started flying in the third quarter. The Patriots accepted seven penalties for 92 yards. While ultimately the penalties did not impact the outcome of the game, it certainly will give the team something to take a closer look at in the film review.
3. Jets fans - The stadium cleared out midway through the third quarter and Brady chants erupted in MetLife Stadium. Just like the defense, Patriots Nation dominated the road.
