Jets Fall in Shootout to Raiders With Disappointing Second Half

The New York Jets had a great offensive performance against the Las Vegas Raiders, but were unable to secure the victory, falling 38-33.

Geno Smith played well, completing 20 of 32 passes for 290 yards, two touchdowns, and an interception. Smith's interception came on the final drive, as New York was looking to take back the lead.

It was still a solid game for Smith, as he connected with Adonai Mitchell seven times for 142 yards and a touchdown. Garrett Wilson also had a great performance with six receptions for 83 yards. Although the passing attack was solid, the run game led the way for the Jets' offense.

Braelon Allen rushed for 147 yards and a touchdown on 21 carries. Allen has played at a high level while Breece Hall has been out. Allen is proving to be a great piece for their offense to build around moving forward, as they have one of the most talented backfields between him and Hall.

However, the Jets' defense did not play at the same level, as the Raiders marched up and down the field. Kirk Cousins had a great game, completing 19 of 26 passes for 247 yards, three touchdowns, and zero interceptions. Cousins was consistently able to connect with his receivers and find them in the end zone.

Brock Bowers was their top weapon, catching seven passes for 92 yards and two touchdowns. Jalen Nailor had four receptions for 38 yards and a touchdown. Running back Ashton Jeanty had a limited role in the run game, with just two carries, but he caught three passes for 64 yards.

Mike Washington Jr. led Las Vegas' backfield with 83 yards on 25 carries. On special teams, the Raiders added another score as Dylan Laube had a 95-yard kick return for a touchdown.

New York is now 2-6 this season, and they have a tough matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs next week. The Jets weren't expected to contend this season, but they have been competitive in their games and are seeing the development of their young core.

Allen has played well, rushing for 565 yards and three touchdowns, along with 17 receptions for 81 yards. They also have a great trio of young receivers with Wilson, Mitchell, and Omar Cooper Jr., as well as a talented rookie tight end, Kenyon Sadiq.

The Jets can feel good about their core long-term, with three first-round picks in the 2027 NFL Draft. They will look to continue getting promising results from their young core and could be competitive in the near future.