NFL4 hours ago2 minute read

David Bailey Dominates as Jets Edge Browns 17-12

Rookie David Bailey recorded three sacks to power the New York Jets past the Cleveland Browns 17-12, ending a three game losing streak.

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Rookie pass rusher leads defensive assault

The New York Jets ended their three game losing streak on Sunday, beating the Cleveland Browns 17-12 at MetLife Stadium. Rookie pass rusher David Bailey led the charge, finishing with three sacks, eight quarterback pressures, and seven tackles.

Bailey became the first Jets rookie to record three sacks in a single game since Hugh Douglas in 1995. Coach Aaron Glenn dialed up pressure on 52% of Deshaun Watson's dropbacks, and New York responded by sacking Watson eight times. That matched the team high for any game over the past 40 seasons.

The defense limited Cleveland to just 198 total yards. The Jets became the first team since the 1999 Tampa Bay Buccaneers to hold three of their first five opponents under 200 yards. Bailey now has five sacks on the season, tied for the most by any player in his first five career games in the last decade.

Late mistake turns the tide

Despite dominating on defense, the Jets almost gave the game away in the fourth quarter. Cleveland took a 12-10 lead when Watson connected with rookie Denzel Boston on a 29 yard touchdown pass. Quarterback Geno Smith then lost a fumble on the next possession, putting New York in trouble.

A mistake by the Browns flipped the momentum. Long snapper Rex Sunahara sent a high snap past punter Corey Bojorquez, allowing the Jets to recover the loose ball at the Cleveland 23 yard line.

Running back Braelon Allen took over from there, scoring a 22 yard touchdown with 3:01 remaining. Allen finished with 116 rushing yards. Will McDonald IV sealed the victory on the final play with a strip sack against Watson. Linebacker Demario Davis called it a historic win for the organization.

What it means for the next game

Baltimore Ravens at Cleveland Browns (NFL, Sun, 18 Oct): Cleveland Browns win 35%, Baltimore Ravens win 65%; projected score Cleveland Browns 19, Baltimore Ravens 23. Our safest pick: Over 33.5 points.

New York Jets at New England Patriots (NFL, Sun, 18 Oct): New England Patriots win 75%, New York Jets win 25%; projected score New England Patriots 26, New York Jets 18. Our safest pick: Patriots to win.