The Jets and Dolphins routinely play thrilling games, and Sunday night’s contest was no different. This time around, you get the feeling that both Miami and New York are playoff-caliber teams.
That makes New York’s 31-23 victory Sunday night in Miami even more important. Jets safety Drew Coleman picked off a Chad Henne pass in the end zone on fourth-and-four from the Jets five-yard line with under 30 seconds left to seal the victory.
Mark Sanchez had his second straight strong game, completing 15-of-28 passes for 256 yards and three touchdowns. With the Jets defense tiring late in the game, Sanchez led the Jets on a 12-play, 80-yard touchdown march to finish the scoring.
The key play was a 20-yard toss on third-and-ten to Braylon Edwards, who was a difference maker after sitting out the first quarter following his DWI this week. Speedier after shaving his beard, Edwards also caught a 67-yard touchdown when Dolphins cornerback Jason Allen slipped while trying to make a tackle.
Miami quarterback Chad Henne also played very well -- throwing for 363 yards -- but the Jets defense consistently slowed down the Dolphins running game.
The Jets are now set up well long-term in the division. The AFC East finishes its early season round robin next week with the Jets heading to Buffalo, and the Patriots heading to Miami.
The Dolphins or Patriots will have two division losses, while the Jets could go to 3-0 in the division if they can shut down Ryan Fitzpatrick in Buffalo. The overall records may be even for now in the AFC East, but the Jets clearly have the early edge.
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