Jetsvs Patriots: Aaron Rodgers Shines in Triumphant Return, Jets Dominate Patriots at MetLife Stadium

In his last game at MetLife Stadium, Aaron Rodgers only played four plays before injuring his Achilles, which ended his season in Week 1 of 2023. On Thursday, over a year later, he returned to the field as a New York Jet and led his team to a solid 24-3 victory over the New England Patriots.

Rodgers, now 40, moved well during the game, escaping defenders and throwing effectively. He completed 27 out of 35 passes for 281 yards, threw two touchdowns—one to Allen Lazard and one to Garrett Wilson—and didn’t throw any interceptions. He also ran the ball three times for 18 yards, while Breece Hall scored another touchdown for the Jets.

Notably, Garrett Wilson became the first wide receiver drafted in the first round to catch a touchdown pass from Rodgers, making it the 480th touchdown of Rodgers’ career. The fans cheered for Rodgers throughout the game, and he called it a “really special night.” 

“I felt really good out there,” he said after the game. “I’ve been getting better, and tonight was a step towards playing like I know I can.” He also mentioned that returning to MetLife Stadium was emotional, but he felt calm and free while playing.

The Jets had struggled offensively last season without Rodgers, but in their third game this season with him back, their offense clicked. The running game was strong, with Hall and Braelon Allen combining for 27 carries and 109 rushing yards, while the offensive line did a good job protecting Rodgers.

On the other hand, the Patriots had a tough game and were outplayed by the Jets. However, fans got to see 2024 first-round draft pick Drake Maye in his first regular season action. Maye, picked third overall, was the backup quarterback behind Jacoby Brissett. After Brissett struggled against the Jets' defense, Maye came in during the fourth quarter. He completed 4 of 8 passes for 22 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions and took a couple of hard hits, including two sacks.