New York Jets (3-8) – Indianapolis Colts (5-6): 27-28
In a thrilling match, the Colts won a precious victory on a ground touchdown from Anthony Richardson (20/30, 272 yards, 3 TDs) in the last minute. In a match with a strange rhythm, Indianapolis played a clean match, taking advantage of the slightest flaw in the Jets' defense to punish.
The young quarterback is the hero of the evening, with 3 touchdowns despite his usual inaccuracies when passing on short routes. The receivers can also be congratulated, notably Alec Pierce (74 yards) who made a decisive reception on the last drive.
The Jets haven't been ridiculous, but the limits are still there. The defense is in difficulty, and Aaron Rodgers (22/29, 184 yards, 2 TDs) is no longer the savior capable of turning a game around in the final moments. Breece Hall (121 yards, 2 TD) was the light in the night, and kept his team in the game for a long time.
The Jets' playoff hopes are fading, while the Colts are still in the race despite a negative record.
Chapter 1: The Colts, a new hope
The start of the match looked like a solitary demonstration by the Colts, facing the Jets unable to achieve a first down during the first 25 minutes. After a first field goal, Anthony Richardson found Adonai Mitchell for 33 yards, just shy of the promised land. The quarterback concludes on the ground (0-10).
Even if the domination is total, the Colts struggle to pile up points. Jonathan Taylor (60 yards) is not incisive, and Indianapolis only adds three points (0-13).
Chapter 2: Breece Hall Strikes Back
When all seems lost, it is Breece Hall who sounds the revolt. First on a 29-yard touchdown before halftime to revive his team, well supported by Davante Adams (7-13).
Returning from the locker room, it was after a fumble from Richardson that Breece Hall doubled the lead, this time on the ground to put his team in front (14-13). The match is restarted, and an incredible mano a mano begins.
Indianapolis scores a field goal? New York does the same. Aaron Rodgers finds Kenny Yeboah for a touchdown? Anthony Richardson finds Joshua Downs (84 yards, 1 TD) to stay in the match (24-22).
Chapter 3: The Return of Anthony Richardson
While the Jets score a touchdown to take a 5-point lead, the pressure is on the Colts. That's when Anthony Richardson found Alec Pierce for 39 yards, before scoring on the ground shortly after to get back in front (27-28). The Jets have one last opportunity with 46 seconds on the clock, but Aaron Rodgers is cut up by the Indiana defense, and must bow.
Checkmate, and a precious victory for Shane Steichen's men.
