Heroes and zeros from the Jets’ 39-38 win over the Bengals on Sunday:
Hero
Maligned Jets quarterback Justin Fields, who wasn’t even a lock to start on Sunday, was 21-of-32 passing for 244 yards and a TD and no turnovers. What enhanced his performance was the week he’d endured, beginning with team owner Woody Johnson publicly criticizing him and then Aaron Glenn not naming a starter all week.
Unsung Hero
Jets running back Breece Hall had one of the best performances of his career, rushing for 133 yards and two TDs on 18 carries and throwing the game-winning TD on a halfback option.
New York Jets running back Breece Hall (20) of the New York Jets runs with the ball during the fourth quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
Zero
Bengals head coach Zac Taylor inexplicably chose to throw the ball midway through the fourth quarter with the lead. The Bengals went three-and-out quickly, punted the ball and the Jets went on to score the winning TD.
Key Stat
254 Rushing yards the Jets amassed on 37 carries. It’s the most rushing yardage for them in a game since 2021.
Quote of the Day
“We’ve been waiting to have this moment, as a team and as individuals, to be able to go out there and perform and get that weight off our shoulders.’’
— Jets WR Allen Lazard
