The New York Jets finally ended their 7-game losing streak, the longest since 1996, as they defeated the Oakland Raiders, 26-10. This game was also the first one since 1998 without RB Curtis Martin whose streak of regular season starts stopped at 119.
Both teams struggled offensively in the first half of the game. Three of the Jets' five possessions ended with punts, while Oakland punted on two of their four possessions. Nevertheless, two first half field goals allowed the Jets to take a 6-3 lead.
As the second half began, the Raiders drove down the field and had an excellent chance to tie the game, but a 29-yard field goal attempt went wide right and the Gang Green took over at their own 20-yard line. The Jets responded with another field goal, extending the lead to 9-3. On the first play from scrimmage on the ensuing Oakland's possession DE John Abraham sacked QB Tuiasosopo and recovered the fumble. The Jets offense, however, once again failed to score a touchdown and had to settle for another field goal, their fourth of the game, 12-3. The next Raiders' drive started just like the last one - a sack and a fumble. John Abraham once again got through the offensive line, causing the fumble that was recovered by DT James Reed.
This time the Jets finally capitalized, as QB Brooks Bollinger connected with WR Justin McCareins for a 4-yard TD pass on the first play of the fourth quarter. The Raiders responded with a touchdown drive of their own, cutting the Jets' lead to 19-10. Later in the fourth quarter rookie RB Cedric Houston scored on a 2-yard TD run, 26-10.
QB Brooks Bollinger had a mistake free game - 14 of 26 for 199 yards, 1 TD, 0 INT. Bollinger also gained 56 yards on 6 runs. RB Cedric Houston, who started in place of injured Curtis Martin, carried the ball 28 times for 74 yards, 1 TD. FB B.J. Askew added 54 rushing yards on 9 carries, as the Gang Green amassed 184 yards on the ground. WR Justin McCareins caught 4 passes for 45 yards, 1 TD.
On the defensive side, DE John Abraham had an outstanding game - 2.0 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 1 fumble recovery, and 5 solo tackles. LB Jonathan Vilma recorded 10 tackles (6 solo) and forced a fumble. CB Ty Law and CB David Barrett each had an interception. The Jets limited their opponent to just 179 total yards and caused four turnovers
PK Mike Nugent was perfect kicking field goals - 4 for 4.
DE Shaun Ellis hurt his hamstring and missed the second half. DT Dewayne Robertson re-aggravated a quad injury.
Next week the Jets will travel to Miami to take on the Miami Dolphins (6-7). The kickoff is at 1:00 PM ET.