New York Jets beat Miami Dolphins: Week 3 Defensive grades

In what used to be one of the biggest rivalry games, the New York Jets came away with a resounding victory over the Miami Dolphins, 20-6 in Week 3 action. Their defense was a huge reason why.

Clichés are often overused, but, what a difference a week makes for the New York Jets. Even though the Miami Dolphins don’t have the firepower of the Oakland Raiders, most people expected the Dolphins to run all over the Jets defense, especially given their performance in the first two weeks.

First and foremost, kudos must be given to linebacker Demario Davis. Davis finally filled the David Harris role pretty nicely, with 11 solo tackles and three tackles for loss.

Safety Jamal Adams finally showed why the Jets took him fourth overall in the 2017 NFL Draft. He had a wonderful pass deflection and a sack in the win. He even added another run stopper with two tackles for loss. The defensive backfield also provided two turnovers, with safety Terrence Brooks providing two interceptions.

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As a unit, the team swarmed to the ball and didn’t provide the Dolphins running game or receivers with any momentum. They only averaged 8.5 yards per catch, and Jay Ajayi was held to a meager 1.5 yards per carry.

The Jets were all around the ball, no matter who had it. They had nine tackles for loss, three sacks, seven pass deflections, and seven quarterback hits. It was a great game from some individuals and from a team defense perspective.

Even though you didn’t see the sack numbers from the defensive line, it’s ok. They imposed their will and allowed Davis to do his thing. You don’t always need sack numbers from the defensive front in order to win.

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Overall, the defense played a heck of a game. They deserve all the praise for what they did to that Dolphins offense.

Week 3 Defensive Grade: A