The New York Jets used a powerful second-half performance to snap a five-game losing streak, beating the Houston Texans 21-13 on “Thursday Night Football.” The first half saw struggles for the Jets, as they managed only 79 yards of offense, including a near touchdown that was overturned after rookie wide receiver Malachi Corley dropped the ball before crossing the goal line, resulting in a touchback.
The Texans struck first with the only touchdown of the half, as Joe Mixon scored on a three-yard run with 3:21 left in the second quarter. However, the second half belonged to the Jets.
Starting off strong after the break, the Jets scored touchdowns on three consecutive drives. Aaron Rodgers connected with Garrett Wilson for a 21-yard touchdown to tie the game at 7-7. Houston quickly responded with a field goal, but Rodgers found Wilson again, this time with an incredible touchdown grab that could be an early Catch of the Year contender.
Houston’s kicker, Ka’imi Fairbairn, missed his second field goal of the night, bouncing the ball off the upright. Taking advantage, the Jets extended their lead with Rodgers throwing a 37-yard touchdown to Davante Adams, marking the first touchdown pass between the two in Jets uniforms. Despite a brief injury scare, Adams returned to seal the game with his remarkable play.
The Jets’ defense was dominant, especially in the second half, with the pass rush generating eight sacks across six players. Will McDonald IV added to the defensive highlights by forcing a red-zone fumble from C.J. Stroud. This victory marks the first for interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich, following Robert Saleh’s departure after Week 5.
This loss leaves Houston at 6-3, their second defeat in three games after a 5-1 start. The Texans now prepare for a challenging matchup against the NFC-leading Detroit Lions next week, with hopes of welcoming back star wide receiver Nico Collins.
It was a night of highlights, from the Rodgers-Wilson connection to Adams’ comeback and a fierce Jets defense. This Week 9 matchup between the Jets and Texans turned from struggle to spectacle, delivering exciting moments for NFL fans.
