NY Jets Score: In a stunning display of athleticism, New York Jets wide receiver Garrett Wilson made an extraordinary one-handed touchdown catch to help the Jets secure a 21-13 victory over the Houston Texans on Thursday night, ending their five-game losing streak. Wilson’s 26-yard grab in the fourth quarter electrified MetLife Stadium and instantly drew comparisons to Odell Beckham Jr.’s iconic catch in the same stadium a decade ago.
The touchdown, Wilson’s second of the game, brought the Jets back from a first-half slump and shifted the game’s momentum, capturing the team’s spirit in what many are calling a season-defining play. Teammates likened the acrobatic catch to Michael Jordan’s “Jumpman” logo, with defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw remarking, “He looked like he was Jordan.” Initially ruled incomplete, the touchdown was awarded after a successful replay challenge confirmed Wilson’s shin had landed inbounds, sealing the play.
Wilson’s catch marked a turning point, giving the Jets a 14-10 lead with just over 12 minutes left in the game. Rodgers, who struggled in the first half with only 32 passing yards, came alive in the second half, completing 22 of 32 passes for 211 yards and three touchdowns, including a 37-yard throw to Davante Adams for the game-winning score.
“This one felt like a must-win,” said Jets interim coach Jeff Ulbrich. “Garrett’s catch was not just highlight-worthy; it was the moment that reinvigorated us.” The Jets offense scored touchdowns on their last three drives, redeeming what began as a sluggish start marked by missed opportunities.
Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud faced intense defensive pressure throughout the game, ending with 191 passing yards and enduring eight sacks. Houston, leading 7-0 at halftime, struggled to capitalize on multiple red-zone opportunities, missing two field goals and losing the ball on a red-zone fumble by Stroud, stripped by Quinnen Williams.
In the second quarter, rookie wide receiver Malachi Corley added to the Jets’ frustrations by prematurely letting go of the ball just before crossing the end zone, resulting in a touchback instead of a touchdown. Rodgers described the mistake as “silly,” while Coach Ulbrich saw it as a learning opportunity for the rookie.
Wilson finished the night with nine catches for 90 yards, solidifying his role as a key playmaker for the Jets. Reflecting on the remarkable catch, Wilson, who grew up idolizing Beckham’s memorable grab, said, “To be mentioned in the same breath as that play is a blessing.”
The Jets (3-6) now move up to second place in the AFC East, while the Texans, despite the loss, hold on to first in the AFC South with a 5-3 record.
