#TBT to the last Patriots-Jets matchup

Seth Wenig | AP

*This article is part of a weekly Throwback Thursday Series that will feature key stat lines and short recaps of the last time the New England Patriots played their upcoming opponent.

Last Time Out…

The New England Patriots and the New York Jets last met on Oct. 15, 2017 for a Week 6 competition. The Patriots won in a score of 24-17, after rallying back form a two-touchdown deficit in the first half.

The Patriots fell behind early and saw themselves down 14-0.

The Jets came out scoring on a 13-play, 88-yard opening drive. New York’s second score came after a Mike Gillislee fumble.

But the Patriots rallied, and a fired-up Tom Brady found Rob Gronkowski in the endzone with just nine seconds left before the half to tie it at 14.

New England kept its momentum going into the second half as they were able to increase the lead to 21-14 after an eight-play, 75-yard drive.

The Jets had some opportunities to keep it a close game, but a controversial call early in the fourth quarter to take back a Jets’ touchdown and a strong Patriots’ defensive stand later in the game helped New England hold on for the victory.

Noteworthy…

Because of the win, New England Patriots’ quarterback Tom Brady broke a tie with Peyton Manning and Brett Favre to claim the top spot in most-regular season wins.

The Patriots have won six of the last seven meetings with the Jets and 11 of the last 13.

The Stats…

Tom Brady went 20-of-38 for 257 yards, two touchdowns and one interception, while Josh McCown was 31-of-47 for 354 yards, two touchdowns and two picks.

Dion Lewis led the way for New England rushing with 11 carries, 52 yards and one touchdown. Mike Gillislee carried the ball 10 times for 44 yards.

For New York, Elijah McGuire ran the ball 10 times for 22 yards, while Matt Forte rushed nine times for 22 yards. Josh McCown added three carries and 21 rushing yards.

On New England’s receiving side, Brandin Cooks hauled in six catches for 93 yards. Rob Gronkowksi also added six catches, with 83 yards and two touchdowns.

New York’s receiving efforts were very widespread this game. Jeremy Kerley had two catches, 61 yards and one touchdown, while Austin Seferian-Jenkins added eight receptions with 46 yards and one touchdown.

Kyle Van Noy and Dont’a Hightower led the way for the Patriots’ defense. Van Noy posted seven total tackles, including six solo and two sacks. Hightower added seven total tackles, including six solo and one sack. Malcom Brown also added a sack in the game.

The Jets’ defense was led by Morris Clairborne who had seven total tackles, including seven solo. Demario Davis added seven total tackles, with four solo.

And Now…

The New York Jets will travel to Foxborough to take on the New England Patriots on Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017. This game is the last week of the regular season. Game time is set for 1pm at Gillette Stadium.

Follow Megan on Twitter: @carnahanmegan