It wasn’t pretty, but the New York Jets snagged its first road win of the season after defeating the Houston Texans 21-14 at NRG Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
In his return to the field, rookie quarterback Zach Wilson appeared rusty. Still, the run game and tenacious defense by the Jets was enough to hold Tyrod Taylor and the Texans from making a comeback late in the fourth quarter.
The Jets got on board first after an interception by John Franklin-Myers resulted in a field goal by kicker Matt Ammendola. The lead did not last long after a throw by Wilson in the second quarter deflected off the back of Ty Johnson and led to an interception by Tavierre Thomas. The Texans would capitalize on the turnover after Taylor connected with Brevin Jordan on a 13-yard touchdown reception.
Taylor’s strong second quarter was capped off with a 40-yard dime to Brandin Cooks to put Houston up 14-3.
In the waning minutes of the half, Austin Walter rushed for a two-yard touchdown for New York. Robert Saleh and the Jets opted to go for two to make it a three-point game and converted after backup quarterback Josh Johnson found an open lane to the end zone.
The Jets’ run game remained strong in the second half, as Wilson dove into the end zone for a touchdown after a four-yard rush to put New York up 18-14. Ammendola later added three to the board after converting on a 37-yard field goal, despite missing one earlier in the contest.
Taylor and the Texans were unable to get anything going offensively against Quinnen Williams and the Jets defense in the second half.
Wilson finished the game 14-24 with 145 yards and one interception, while Taylor threw for 158 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception.
Now 3-8, Wilson and the Jets return to MetLife Stadium on Dec. 5 to take on the Philadelphia Eagles (5-7). The Texans (2-9) look to get back in the win column against the 6-6 Indianapolis Colts.
(Photo: USA Today)
