Just when you thought the Buccaneers would pull of a win, an amazing turn of events occurred in the 4th quarter.
After kicking a field goal to put the Jets up 15-14, Josh Freeman’s offense controlled the Jets defense. A 37-yard Vincent Jackson reception helped them kick a field goal, which appeared to seal their victory. However, trailing 17-15 with time running out, Geno Smith scrambled out of the pocket and bolted to the sideline where he was laid out by Lavonte David – out of bounds. A penalty was called and this unnecessary mistake led to a 48-yard game-winning field goal by Nick Folk.
Smith gave a good effort in his first career NFL game going 24 for 38 and throwing for 256 yards. There were times when he struggled during the game. Smith was back-pedaling, but was never able to get away from Mason Foster which resulted in a loss of 18 yards. His fumble in the second quarter led to a touchdown run by Doug Martin. Smith threw his first interception when he overthrew Chris Ivory. However, his poise in the pocket and assertive attitude looked promising for the rookie. Veteran Kellen Winslow gave an incredible performance, catching seven reception for 78 yards.
Josh Freeman had a sub-par performance going 15 for 31 and throwing for 210 yards. He had to use two timeouts in the first quarter and threw an interception. Doug Martin rushed for 65 yards and a score on 24 carries.
Rex Ryan on the miraculous win: “We feel good about Geno. We feel good about our team from top to bottom.”
Darrelle Revis almost caught an interception in the red zone, but that was mainly it in his return against his former team.
Penalties were a major factor in this game, especially for the Buccaneers. The Buccaneers were called for five penalties in the first quarter, including two in a row for trying to call timeout. The Buccaneers finished with 13, including Lavonte David’s turnaround late-hit.
Jets have a short week to prepare for the Patriots this Thursday in Foxbourgh. Their run game has to improve against Jered Mayo and the New England linebackers. Jets fan have to appreciate the toughness it took to beat the Bucs and have a much harder opponent on Thursday. The previous time they faced the Patriots wasn’t pretty, but the Jets have a different team in them.
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