The New England Patriots needed this game to have the playoffs go through Foxborough and they did not disappoint clinching home-field advantage throughout with their win over the New York Jets 26-6.
The Patriots started off fast with wide receiver Danny Amendola having arguably the best drive of his career catching four passes for 43 yards ending with a three yard Dion Lewis rush for a touchdown.
But after the Jets scored the field goal, Brady looked the player he was these past few weeks, sluggish, slow, and sloppy as the offense was flat for the remainder of the first quarter.
The Patriots were able to find their rhythm with a few penalties going there way as Brady was able to find Brandin Cooks for his seventh touchdown reception of the season.
Lewis then continued his role with yet another touchdown this time through the air putting the game out of reach.
So began the fourth quarter as the Patriots essentially played keep away as the only points scored were a safety.
With five minutes remaining, Brian Hoyer replaced Brady as they ran out the clock to seal a 13-3 record.
Top Performers: Offense – 2 Defense – 3
Offense:
Dion Lewis: Lewis has been outright dominant this season with yet another multi touchdown game. Lewis is a player that should be a part of this team’s future and will most likely be extended at the end of the season. Lewis also was the first player since former Patriots fullback Larry Garron in 1964 to have consecutive games with a receiving and rushing touchdown in the same game.
Brandin Cooks: Cooks ended the season and while to some he’s underperformed, he finished as the only Patriots wide receiver to finish with over 1,000 receiving yards. Expect him to be a big target in the postseason.
Defense:
Marquis Flowers: Flowers has become an enforcer in the pass rush down the stretch and another surprise for this unit after being traded for almost purely special teams purposes.
Lawrence Guy: Guy started out the season as a disappointment but down the stretch, he has been among the best on the defensive line. Was he overpaid for? Yes, but the payoff was indeed worth it.
James Harrison: Harrison came to the Patriots wanting to play and he got his wish as well as ran with it. The pass rusher had two sacks, four total tackles, and a forced fumble in his first game in a Patriots uniform. Harrison’s presence made an obvious difference as everyone on the line more physical. Harrison also dropped back into coverage against running backs further establishing that when you’re on the Patriots, you’re doing everything.
