Move over Rich Kotite, Adam Gase now holds the honors of guiding the team to the worst start in their history. The Gang Green very came close to finally ending their losing streak. They had a 10-point lead going into the fourth quarter but, in typical Jets' fashion, they choked down the stretch and allowed 13 unanswered points. Former Jets PK Nick Folk kicked the game winner as time expired and Gase's Jets fell to 0-9.
The Jets actually played pretty well, leading for the most part of the Monday Night contest. Backup QB Joe Flacco, who started in place of injured Sam Darnold, threw three touchdown passes in the first three quarters. He connected with WR Breshad Perriman on a 50-yard bomb in the second quarter, as the Jets took the lead for the first time in this game. Nine minutes later the Gang Green backup signal caller found WR Jamison Crowder in the corner of the end zone, extending the lead to 20-10 as the first half ended. The Pats cut the lead down to three points, but Flacco to Perriman connection clicked again late in the third quarter, 27-17.
It went all downhill from there on. As the Pats made it 27-20 with six minuted left in the final quarter, the Jets decided to go for the jugular. On the first play from scrimmage of the ensuing Jets' possession, Flacco threw a deep pass that was intercepted. The defense that was finally getting some rest after the previous 17-play, 9+ minute New England drive was forced back onto the field. The Pats marched straight down the field, tying the game 27-27 with four minutes left. Adam Gase's team responded with a three and out, putting even more pressure on the defense. One minute later Folk kicked the game winner, instantly cementing Gase's legacy as one of the worst head coaches in team's history.
Well, they came very close to damaging the fans' dreams of Trevor Lawrence. But in the end, Adam Gase's Jets were exactly what they are - the worst team the Jets have had since the Rich Kotite era. They are 0-9 and well on the way t0 the number one overall draft pick in 2021. The next week is a bye and then it's off to Los Angeles to face the 2-6 Chargers. The only competition for the top pick might come from the Jaguars, who are the lone team with one win. The Jets would have to win a game first though...