The NFL game between the Washington Commanders and the New York Jets on December 24, 2023, was full of energy, drama, and surprise. Both teams fought hard at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Jets finally won the match with a close score of 30–28, thanks to a last-minute field goal.
Game Overview
The game was exciting from start to finish.
- Final Score: New York Jets 30 – Washington Commanders 28
- Stadium: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ
- Date: December 24, 2023
The Jets started strong, leading 27–7 at one point. But the Commanders did not give up. They made a great comeback in the second half and even took the lead 28–27 for a short time. In the end, the Jets won after kicking a 54-yard field goal with just five seconds left on the clock.
Team Performance Summary
Washington Commanders
- Total Yards: 245
- Passing Yards: 143
- Rushing Yards: 102
- Time of Possession: 23 minutes, 44 seconds
- Penalties: 8 for 68 yards
New York Jets
- Total Yards: 381
- Passing Yards: 217
- Rushing Yards: 164
- Time of Possession: 36 minutes, 16 seconds
- Penalties: 14 for 150 yards
The Jets clearly had more control of the game, especially in the first half. Their offense looked more balanced, mixing both rushing and passing plays. The Commanders were slow at first but played much better in the second half.
First Half Highlights
The Jets came out strong early in the game. Breece Hall, the Jets’ running back, made big plays both running and catching the ball. The Commanders’ defense had trouble stopping him.
Trevor Siemian, the Jets’ quarterback, managed the game calmly. He made quick passes, helping the Jets build a big lead before halftime.
By the end of the second quarter, the Jets were ahead 27–7, and it looked like the game might end in an easy win for them.
Second Half Comeback
In the third quarter, the Commanders finally found their rhythm. Quarterback Jacoby Brissett replaced Sam Howell and gave the team new energy.
Brissett threw quick, smart passes, and the running game started working well. Chris Rodriguez Jr. scored two rushing touchdowns, helping Washington close the gap.
With only a few minutes left in the fourth quarter, the Commanders took the lead 28–27 after a touchdown pass to Logan Thomas.
Fans were on the edge of their seats, but the Jets were not done yet.
Key Player Performances
Washington Commanders
Jacoby Brissett (QB)
- Completed 10 of 13 passes
- 100 passing yards
- 1 touchdown, no interceptions
Brissett came in during the second half and changed the game’s tempo. His calm play and smart throws helped the Commanders get back into the game.
Chris Rodriguez Jr. (RB)
- 10 carries for 58 yards
- 2 rushing touchdowns
Rodriguez showed great strength, especially near the goal line. His runs gave Washington the confidence they needed.
Logan Thomas (TE)
- 5 receptions for 36 yards
- 1 receiving touchdown
Thomas was reliable, especially in short-yard situations. His touchdown helped Washington take a temporary lead.
Terry McLaurin (WR)
- 3 receptions for 50 yards
McLaurin made a few key catches that helped move the ball downfield. Though he didn’t score, he helped open space for others.
New York Jets
Trevor Siemian (QB)
- 27 completions out of 49 attempts
- 217 yards, 1 touchdown, 1 interception
Siemian didn’t have a perfect game but stayed patient. His steady control of the offense was key, especially on the final drive.
Breece Hall (RB)
- 20 carries for 95 yards and 2 touchdowns
- 12 receptions for 96 yards
Hall was the star of the game. He dominated both in running and receiving. His total of over 190 yards made him the biggest difference-maker on the field.
Garrett Wilson (WR)
- 9 receptions for 76 yards
Wilson provided safe hands and helped the Jets move the ball on key third downs.
Turning Point of the Game
The biggest turning point came in the final minute. With the Commanders leading 28–27, the Jets began one last drive. Siemian kept his cool and guided the offense into field goal range.
Then came the big moment: Greg Zuerlein, the Jets’ kicker, nailed a 54-yard field goal with only five seconds left, giving New York the win.
It was a heartbreaking loss for the Commanders, who had worked hard to come back from such a large deficit.
What We Learned
- Breece Hall is a star in the making. His mix of speed, strength, and catching ability makes him one of the best young running backs in the NFL.
- The Commanders have depth at quarterback. Jacoby Brissett showed that he can step up and lead the team when needed.
- Penalties hurt both teams. The Jets had 14 penalties, showing discipline problems. The Commanders also gave up key yards at bad times.
- Defense needs improvement. Both defenses gave up big plays. Tackling and coverage must get better before the next games.
- Special teams can win games. Zuerlein’s kick proved how important special teams can be in close matches.
Final Thoughts
The Jets vs Commanders game was one of the most entertaining matchups of the 2023 season. It had everything: big plays, comebacks, and late drama.
The Jets earned a deserved win with their balance and resilience. The Commanders, even in defeat, showed strong heart and fight.
Games like this remind fans why the NFL is so popular. Anything can happen, even in the final seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who won the game between the Washington Commanders and New York Jets?
The New York Jets won with a score of 30–28.
2. When was the game played?
The game took place on December 24, 2023.
3. Where was the match held?
It was played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
4. Who was the top performer for the Jets?
Breece Hall was the standout player, with 191 total yards and 2 touchdowns.
5. Who led the Commanders on offense?
Jacoby Brissett and Chris Rodriguez Jr. led the Commanders’ comeback.
6. How did the Jets win the game?
They won with a 54-yard field goal by Greg Zuerlein in the final seconds.
7. How many total yards did each team have?
The Jets had 381 yards; the Commanders had 245 yards.
8. Did either quarterback throw an interception?
Yes, Trevor Siemian threw one interception for the Jets.
9. What was the biggest lead of the game?
The Jets led by 20 points (27–7) before the Commanders came back.
10. What can both teams learn from this game?
The Jets learned the value of finishing strong, while the Commanders learned they can compete with anyone if they stay consistent.
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