Xavier Gipson’s Punt Return Seals Victory for New York
In an electrifying season opener that saw the New York Jets face the Buffalo Bills, Xavier Gipson emerged as the unlikely hero with a game-winning 65-yard punt return for a touchdown just 58 seconds into overtime. This stunning play secured a thrilling 22-16 victory for the Jets, capping a night of high-stakes football at East Rutherford, N.J.
The Jets’ journey to victory started on a rocky note, with the loss of star quarterback Aaron Rodgers just four snaps into the game. Rodgers, acquired in the offseason from the Green Bay Packers, was forced to exit the field after a sack by Bills defensive end Leonard Floyd resulted in a 10-yard loss. While X-rays were negative, Jets coach Robert Saleh expressed concerns about a potential Achilles injury, terming it “not good.” Further evaluation through an MRI is scheduled for Tuesday.
Stepping into the quarterback role, Zach Wilson, who served as the Jets’ primary quarterback over the past two years, completed 14 of 21 passes for 140 yards, one touchdown, and one interception.
The Jets showcased their resilience, with Garrett Wilson delivering an incredible scoring reception, Greg Zuerlein contributing three successful field goals, and Jordan Whitehead intercepting three passes during the game. Running back Breece Hall rushed for an impressive 127 yards on 10 carries.
Buffalo’s Tyler Bass made a crucial 50-yard field goal with two seconds left in regulation, hitting the left upright before the ball found its way through, forcing an overtime showdown.
Despite the Bills’ strong offensive performance, led by quarterback Josh Allen, who threw for 236 yards and one touchdown, turnovers proved costly. Allen’s three interceptions and one lost fumble equaled his career-worst of four turnovers, hampering Buffalo’s chances. The Bills’ offense struggled in overtime, going three-and-out before Xavier Gipson’s game-winning punt return down the left sideline.
Stefon Diggs was a standout for the Bills, with 10 receptions for 102 yards and a touchdown.
Notably, Jordan Whitehead’s third interception granted the Jets possession at their own 43 with 9:43 remaining in regulation. Subsequently, Garrett Wilson’s acrobatic touchdown catch tied the score at 13 with 4:55 left.
The Jets capitalized on the Bills’ mistakes, as Allen lost a fumble, allowing Quinnen Williams to recover and set up the Jets at the Buffalo 27 with 4:51 left. Zuerlein’s 30-yard field goal with 1:48 remaining handed New York its first lead of the game at 16-13.
Buffalo initially took the lead with Tyler Bass’ 40-yard field goal with 3:05 remaining in the first quarter. The Jets responded with Breece Hall’s spectacular 83-yard run, leading to a 26-yard game-tying field goal by Zuerlein with 10:35 left in the first half.
Buffalo regained the lead with Josh Allen’s 5-yard touchdown pass to Stefon Diggs with 4:43 left in the half. Bass added a 34-yard field goal with 17 seconds remaining, securing a 13-3 halftime lead for Buffalo. Zuerlein’s 43-yard field goal in the third quarter narrowed New York’s deficit to 13-6.
