Monday Morning Quarterback: New York Jets vs. Oakland Raiders

Dec 8, 2013; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith (7) throws a pass while under pressure from Oakland Raiders defensive tackle Vance Walker (98) during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports

Finally we have a happy recap to talk about. It’s been a while, hasn’t it? The Jets finally won one, their first since beating the New Orleans Saints a month ago, beating the Oakland Raiders by a score of 37-27. With the win, the Jets keep their slim post-season hopes alive. Let’s talk about it.

Today was about the resurrection of their young quarterback, Geno Smith. Rex said that he was waiting for Geno to have a big game, and a big game he had. He was efficient, throwing 16-25 for 219 yards, and his first touchdown in over 100 pass attempts. He benefited from the return of Santonio Holmes and Jeremy Kerley greatly, hitting Kerley for a 25 yard touchdown in the first quarter, and Holmes early for a 32 yard gain.

Aside from the efficiency with his arm, there were two great things we saw from Geno yesterday. The first was his willingness to use his legs. He scrambled five times for 50 yards, including an eight yard touchdown in the third quarter. Geno did not hesitate to take an opening when he had one. When you have that kind of ability, it gives you a uniqueness that not every quarterback has, and you can’t be afraid to use it when necessary.

Second was his ability to bounce back. After his interception in the first quarter, I am sure that I wasn’t the only one who was thinking, “Here we go again”. But that wasn’t how it happened at all. Instead, he came back and played well. The ensuing drive was the Kerley touchdown, and the Jets were on their way.

As I mentioned before, Geno had weapons at his disposal, and it showed. Kellen Winslow caught three passes for 61 yards, Holmes caught 3 for 55, Kerley caught four for 41, and Nelson caught four for 32.

The defense was actually a little bit off their game, despite the interception by Ed Reed. The Raiders did outgain the Jets 383 yards to 352. The Raiders were also able to net 150 yards rushing, over double what the Jets allow per game leading up to this one. They did get to McGloin three times, however.

For the first time in quite some time, a big special teams play went down. The Antonio Allen blocked punt touchdown really opened up the lead, giving the Jets some room to breath in this one. Big thumbs up to Ben Kotwicka’s group for finally breaking through with a huge play.

So, the Jets move on to face Cam Newton and the Carolina Panthers, with still a slim chance to make the playoffs as the final Wild Card team. Hey, all we can ask for is meaningful football in December.