By The Numbers: Patriots Pick Up First Win Of The Season

There is nothing like a get-right game against the New York Jets.

The New England Patriots got their first look at Jets rookie quarterback Zach Wilson and very much enjoyed what they saw, picking him off four times, in a 25-6 victory on Sunday. The Patriots’ own rookie, Mac Jones, was very efficient once again, completing 22-of-30 passes for 186 yards, no touchdowns, and no turnovers. Although spotty at times, the Patriots’ defense forced Wilson into four interceptions over the course of the afternoon.

Here are some other numbers to ponder from the game.

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2001

With the Patriots’ victory over the Jets, New England avoided their first 0-2 since the 2001 season. Now, that year was the first year with Tom Brady under center so it didn’t end that bad for the team but they shouldn’t expect lightning to strike twice. That team was just one of only three that have started the season 0-2 and went on to win the Super Bowl. Even playoff percentages plummet when teams lose their first two games. Either way, its a situation the Patriots certainly didn’t want to be in especially since it would also mean being 0-2 in the AFC East as well.

69

It is early but quarterback Mac Jones has shown an ability to keep the ball out of harm’s way. Now, the conservative game plan is part of that, however, it seems that Jones makes protecting the ball his highest priority. Of the 2021 first-rounders, only Trey Lance and Jones have yet to throw an interception. In that time, Jones has attempted 69 passes, Lance just one. Jones’ 69 pass attempts without an interception is impressive but still a long way off from Tom Brady’s record of 162 attempts to start a career without an interception.  Brady didn’t throw his first until Week 7 that season.

19

Cornerback J.C. Jackson picked up a pair of interceptions in the Patriots win over the Jets, his third career multi-interception game and first since 2019. The two picks give him 19 since the start of the 2018 season which is tied with Xavian Howard of the Miami Dolphins for most in the NFL. The Patriots were forced to navigate the start of the 2021 season without All-Pro corner Stephon Gilmore starting the season on the PUP list and the departure of steady veteran Jason McCourty. Jackson has filled the role admirably and for every interception he hauls in, the higher his price tag becomes.

11

If it seems like a while since the Jets beat the Patriots then you’re instincts are sharp. Sunday’s win was the Patriots’ 11th consecutive win over Gang Green dating back to the start of the 2016 season. The last time the Jets beat the Patriots was on December 27th, 2015 in overtime with Ryan Fitzpatrick under center for New York.