EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills were anticipating a comfortable halftime lead against the New York Jets, but that changed dramatically with an incredible 52-yard Hail Mary touchdown pass from Aaron Rodgers just before the half. The surprising play energized Jets fans and created a buzz on social media.
“It was kind of a gut punch,” Allen admitted.
Despite the setback, the Bills managed to maintain their composure, ultimately defeating the Jets 23-20 on Monday night, allowing them to seize early control of the AFC East.
“Fighting through adversity, regrouping, and focusing on one play at a time was key for us,” Allen stated. Although he felt they could have scored more points in the second half, the team found a way to win.
Allen threw two touchdown passes and added a rushing touchdown, while Tyler Bass redeemed an earlier miss by kicking a go-ahead 22-yard field goal with just under four minutes left, helping the Bills (4-2) break a two-game losing streak. The Bills have not lost three straight games since Allen became the starting quarterback.
“It was a gritty win led by Josh,” said coach Sean McDermott.
The loss marked the third consecutive defeat for the Jets (2-4), following a week of upheaval that included the firing of coach Robert Saleh and the promotion of defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich to interim coach, along with offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett losing his play-calling responsibilities.
“Yeah, it was a weird week,” Rodgers commented.
The game featured a total of 22 penalties, with both teams committing 11. Jets kicker Greg Zuerlein missed two potential go-ahead field goals, hitting the left upright on both attempts.
Allen completed 19 of 25 passes for 215 yards, while rookie Ray Davis, filling in for the injured James Cook, rushed for 97 yards on 20 carries and caught three passes for 55 yards.
In a tense finish with the Jets trailing 23-20, Rodgers attempted a deep pass to Mike Williams, but it fell short, and Taron Johnson intercepted it. Johnson made a diving play after returning from a forearm injury. Following the turnover, the Bills successfully ran out the clock to secure the victory.
“We aim to make the playoffs, and winning our division is crucial,” Allen acknowledged. “Being 4-2 with a 2.5 game lead means a lot compared to being 3-3.”
Rodgers finished the game with 23 completions on 35 attempts, totaling 294 yards with two touchdowns and one interception. Breece Hall contributed significantly, rushing for 113 yards and adding 56 yards receiving.
“We thought we were going to have a big night on offense,” Rodgers said, expressing confidence early on.
The Jets started strong, with a 34-yard field goal by Zuerlein marking their first points on an opening drive this season. However, the Bills quickly responded with a 1-yard touchdown run by Allen, giving Buffalo a 7-3 lead.
The Jets briefly regained the lead with a 5-yard touchdown catch by Garrett Wilson. Yet, Allen directed a 90-yard drive that culminated in an 8-yard touchdown pass to Mack Hollins, followed by a second TD pass from Allen to Dawson Knox just before halftime, putting the Bills up 20-10.
Despite Bass missing a 47-yard attempt in the second half, Zuerlein managed to tie the game at 20 with a 22-yard kick. The Jets had a chance to take the lead but were hindered by a holding penalty and missed opportunities, including Zuerlein hitting the upright again.
Injury updates included Jets safety Chuck Clark, who left the game in the second quarter with an ankle injury, and cornerback D.J. Reed, who exited in the third quarter with a groin issue.
Next up, the Bills will host the Tennessee Titans, while the Jets are set to face the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday night.