For the New York Jets, the win was the thing. They didn’t care how they got, or whether it looked pretty or not. After three straight losses, all Gang Green cared about was getting back to .500 Monday night by defeating the winless Miami Dolphins. They did so, of course, 24-6.
“We needed a win in the worst way. We’re just happy that we found a way to get one,” said Jets coach Rex Ryan.
After a week filled with criticism from wide receiver Santonio Holmes, the trade of disgruntled receiver Derrick Mason and lots of sniping about offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer the Jets need to return to focusing on football.
“It’s just we needed. We’re back on track,” said quarterback Mark Sanchez. “It was big for us, but we’re not done yet. There are plenty of corrections to make and it just feels good to get a win. It’s nice to come into the locker room and not think, ‘Man we were so close,’ or ‘Man we could have,’ and ‘I wish I would have done this or that’.”
Cornerback Darrelle Revis made the game-changing play, a 100-yard interceptiuon return for a touchdown that gave the Jets the lead for good in the first quarter.
“This was key for us. Losing, especially in this business, it’s tough. During the week, it’s hard coming to work. It leaves a nasty taste in your mouth. We lost three straight and we wanted to get this win. We came in with a great game plan. Guys stuck together and we played well,” Revis said.