The New York Jets picked up an impressive victory over the Miami Dolphins in Week 5. The Dolphins were ripe for the picking, as starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa was sidelined because of a concussion and his backup, Teddy Bridgewater, suffered one on his first play of the game.
Once Bridgewater was announced out, this was a game that the Jets had to win. Facing off against rookie Skylar Thompson, New York took full advantage, pulling out a 40-17 victory as Miami’s offense was nonexistent outside of running back Raheem Mostert.
Mostert ran the ball 18 times for 113 yards and a touchdown, adding one reception for nine yards. The rest of the team combined for only 173 yards of offense as the Jets’ defense was up to the task.
Gang Green also had a running back of their own emerge with a breakout game. Rookie Breece Hall has seen his touches tick up in recent weeks and against Miami, he cemented himself as the lead back.
The second-round pick out of Iowa State had multiple explosive, big plays. He had a 79-yard catch in the first quarter to set up the team’s first touchdown of the day. His only other reception, a 21-yarder, set up another touchdown as well.
Four of his 18 rushes also went for 10+ yards, as Hall produced chunk gains throughout the afternoon. Overall, he carried the ball for 97 yards and a touchdown. According to ESPN Stats & Info, Hall set a franchise record for scrimmage yards in a game for a rookie, helping the Jets snap their 12-game divisional losing streak in the process.
Given the circumstances, this was a game that the Jets had to win and they came through with a decisive victory. They are riding some positive momentum, which they will need heading into a daunting stretch of their schedule.
New York heads on the road to face the Green Bay Packers and Denver Broncos before hosting the New England Patriots and Buffalo Bills heading into their bye week. Hall will be relied upon heavily in the coming weeks as the Jets look to show that their recent form of play is becoming the norm and not a fluke.
