Grading the Jets’ 24-20 win over the Steelers on Sunday.
Offense
It was not pretty for a long stretch in the middle of the game, but the offense came through with two fourth-quarter touchdowns to win the game. QB Zach Wilson (18 of 36, 252 yards, 1 passing TD, 1 receiving TD, 59.0 QB rating) started strong, faded and then came up huge at the end of the game. It was a solid return for the second-year quarterback, whose mobility kept several plays alive. Wide receiver Corey Davis (5 catches, 74 yards, 1 TD) was a reliable receiver for Wilson down the stretch. RB Breece Hall (17 rushes, 66 yards, 1 TD, 2 catches, 12 yards) scored the game-winner and ran hard all day.
Grade: B
Defense
The communication issues that have plagued the Jets this season were absent for most of the game. They still had a boneheaded penalty from Carl Lawson at the end of the first half, but they were good for most of the game. They contained the Steelers’ rushing attack and they sacked Mitch Trubisky three times. The defense also had four takeaways, none bigger than the interception by Michael Carter II in the fourth quarter to set up the game-winning drive.
Grade: B
Rober Saleh reacts during the Jets’ win over the Steelers.USA TODAY Sports Special Teams
It was a pretty nondescript day for the Jets’ special teams. Greg Zuerlein hit his only field-goal attempt from 38 yards. Punter Braden Mann had five punts, landing two inside the 20. They did not do much in the return game, but also did not allow much from the Steelers’ returners. The Jets missed a chance for another takeaway on a fumble by Pittsburgh returner Gunner Olszewski.
Grade: C
Coaching
The Jets weathered adversity in the fourth quarter and found a way to win. They showed a lot of tenacity and that is a credit to Robert Saleh and the coaches. Offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur called a good game for Wilson’s return and the trick play for the first touchdown was a fantastic call. Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich’s unit did not make as many mental mistakes as last week.
Grade: A
