Jets Soar Past Browns 27-20 Behind Hall's Explosive Performance

The New York Jets (1-7) and the Cleveland Browns (2-6) faced off at MetLife Stadium on Sunday night, both teams eagerly searching for solutions to their frustrating seasons. The Jets had just secured their first win of 2025, while the Browns were reeling after suffering consecutive losses, despite showing potential earlier in the season.

First Quarter Fireworks Set the Tone

The game erupted into action right from the outset! Cleveland was the first to make an impact when rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel connected with tight end David Njoku for a 9-yard touchdown pass, culminating an impressive drive down the field. Gabriel exhibited remarkable composure in the pocket, linking up with Jerry Jeudy several times to propel the Browns into scoring territory.

However, the Jets swiftly responded in exhilarating fashion! Kickoff return specialist Keon Nwangwu received the subsequent kickoff and dashed 99 yards for a touchdown, electrifying the home crowd and leveling the score at 7-7.

The excitement didn't end there. On Cleveland's following possession, the Browns struggled to advance the ball and were compelled to punt. That's when Jets returner Isaiah Williams delivered another astonishing moment, returning the punt 74 yards for a touchdown! Just like that, New York surged ahead 14-7 following an extraordinary display of special teams prowess.

Second Quarter Battle

The second quarter became a contest dominated by defensive strategies and field position skirmishes. Cleveland's defense made a pivotal play when safety Ronnie Hickman intercepted a pass from Justin Fields intended for Garrett Wilson, granting the Browns advantageous field position.

Gabriel capitalized on the situation by finding Jeudy for a splendid 22-yard touchdown pass that equalized the game at 14-14. The rookie quarterback demonstrated impressive arm strength and accuracy with that scoring throw.

The Jets managed to secure a field goal before halftime, with Nick Folk successfully making a 26-yard kick. Cleveland answered with a field goal of their own just as time expired, resulting in a 17-17 tie at the break after Gabriel orchestrated a rapid two-minute drill.

Third Quarter Grind

The third quarter evolved into a defensive confrontation as both teams vied for advantageous field position. Breece Hall began to assert his dominance for the Jets, consistently grinding out tough yards between the tackles. The running back revealed the power and vision that had made him a standout player, steadily wearing down the Browns' defense with his punishing running style.

Neither team found the end zone during the third quarter, but Hall's commanding ground game was setting the stage for an exciting fourth quarter.

Fourth Quarter Decisive Moments

The final quarter belonged to Breece Hall and the Jets' rushing attack. Hall broke free for a spectacular 42-yard touchdown run, showcasing his breakaway speed and agility in evading defenders in open space. This impressive play propelled New York to a 24-17 lead and underscored why Hall is regarded as one of the league's most exhilarating young running backs.

Cleveland regrouped and fought back with tenacity. Gabriel leveraged his mobility to extend plays and locate open receivers, guiding the Browns on a scoring drive that culminated in a field goal, narrowing the deficit to 24-20.

The Jets responded by adding another field goal, elevating their lead to 27-20. Their defense then held steadfast in the waning moments, securing the victory.

Looking Ahead

This triumph elevates the Jets to a record of 2-7, marking their second consecutive win, a notable achievement for the season. Hall’s explosive performance, evidenced by 83 rushing yards and a touchdown, proves that New York’s offense can be formidable when their running game clicks. Fields adeptly managed the game, despite throwing an interception, while the special teams unit delivered two remarkable touchdown returns.

For Cleveland, the loss drops them to 2-7, extending their recent struggles. Gabriel demonstrated glimpses of his potential with 167 passing yards and two touchdowns, but the alarming six sacks reflected ongoing concerns with the offensive line. Judkins rushed for 75 yards on 22 carries, continuing his commendable rookie campaign.

As both teams look to capitalize on their positives, they prepare for their next opponents in what continues to be a developmental season for these young rosters.