OFFENSE
There were moments when this unit was playing its best football of this season. It totaled 374 yards and had a nice balance of passing (220 yards) and rushing (154). Rookie QB Geno Smith (17-of-27, 190 yards, 1 rushing TD) had his second straight game without a turnover. RB Bilal Powell (21 rushes, 76 yards, 1 pass for 30 yards) was a workhorse. The offensive line did not allow a sack, giving Smith a ton of time to operate.
Grade: B+
DEFENSE
After getting embarrassed by the Dolphins four weeks ago, the defense had something to prove and it showed. It gave up some yards, but kept the Dolphins, for the most part, out of the end zone. CB Dee Milliner had two interceptions and played a strong game against WR Mike Wallace (5 catches, 25 yards, 1 TD). The Dolphins managed just 92 rushing yards in the game.
Grade: A-
SPECIAL TEAMS
Nick Folk missed a 35-yard field goal in the fourth quarter that felt like it could be costly, but the Dolphins did not capitalize. Folk made two others. Ryan Quigley had three punts inside the 20. The Jets’ return game was nonexistent.
Grade: C
COACHING
Rex Ryan managed to get eight wins out of a roster most thought would win four or five games. Ryan also managed the final weeks of the season when rumors about his job raged. Offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg called a great game, putting Smith in position to succeed.
Grade: A