The return of All-Pro tight end Rob Gronkowski wasn't enough to put the Patriots over the top as Tom Brady struggled in a 30-27 overtime loss to the New York Jets on Sunday afternoon.
Patriots vs. Jets 2013 final score: Jets win in Rob Gronkowski’s return, 30-27
Tom Brady looked out of sync despite the return of star tight end Rob Gronkowski.
Jeff Zelevansky
James Dator has been covering a wide range of sports for SB Nation for over a decade, with a special focus on the NFL.
Brady was sacked four times in the loss and never seemed to get in rhythm. Deep passing opportunities evaporated when he was under pressure, with his longest pass coming on a 30-yard reception by Gronkowski early in the game.
Typically two rushing touchdowns and a pick-six would be enough to give the Patriots an easy victory, but not so on Sunday as Brady’s lone turnover resulted in a touchdown for New York that was too much to overcome on the back of several other miscues, including an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty to set up the game-winning field goal.
Geno Smith was the difference-maker on offense for the Jets. The rookie quarterback was able to shake off the interception and remained poised in the pocket. He finished with 265 all-purpose yards, plus he was responsible for a pair of touchdowns. He was supported by running back Chris Ivory, who was instrumental in overtime, setting up the game-winning field goal.
Injury update
Dee Milliner left the field in the second half, but the Jets cornerback was able to return.
Fantasy studs and duds
Rob Gronkowski was strong in his return, catching eight passes for 114 yards.
Jeremy Kerley could be a very interesting player moving forward, especially for fantasy teams dealing with wide receiver injuries. He finished with 97 yards and a touchdown, quickly becoming one of Smith's favorite targets.
Tom Brady was a fantasy dud, as he failed to complete 50 percent of his passes and threw for just 228 yards and an interception in the loss.
Did they Cover?
The New England Patriots were 3.5-point favorites, according to OddsShark. Their outright loss means they failed to cover
What’s next?
New England vs. Miami, Sunday, Oct. 27
New York Jets vs. Cincinnati, Sunday, Oct. 27
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