Patriots

Recent history will be on New England’s side.

The Patriots have won 20 straight games against a first or second-year quarterback, the longest such streak in NFL history.

Darnold was optimistic last week about an offense that was much healthier after dealing with some early season injuries, including his three- game absence with mononucleosis.

Darnold was also coming off being selected as the AFC Offensive Player of the Week after leading the Jets to a 24-22 win over Dallas in Week 6 in his return.

He was hopeful that the momentum of picking up their first victory of the season would carry over against New England. Not quite. Instead the Patriots forced six turnovers against the Jets, intercepting Darnold four times as they sent a wave of pressure his way.

The Patriots have allowed a league-low 48 points this season and have an NFL

best 18 interceptions. That is the most through seven games since the Green Bay Packers had 20 in 1996.

While Tom Brady and the offense have had to adjust to injuries on the offensive line, in the backfield and at receiver, they are feeling a lot better after scoring four touchdowns against the Jets.

One of the scores included an assist from Roberts, who logged snaps at fullback with James Develin and Jakob Johnson both on injured reserve.

New England will have a little more help against Cleveland after acquiring receiver Mohamed Sanu in a trade with Atlanta on Tuesday. Sanu adds another threat in the passing game with Josh Gordon recovering from ankle and knee injuries. WHAT’S WORKING The Patriots did their best job this season using their pressure to force turnovers. And most of their blitzes weren’t called by New England’s coaches, Belichick said. Instead they were on-field adjustments by a defense that safety and captain Devin McCourty said is finding new ways to be aggressive.

“At times it can be a safety, it can be one of the backs or one of the lineman. Understanding that it can keep switching. That makes it tough on teams. We just have to keep doing those things,” said McCourty, who had his fifth interception of the 2019 season. WHAT NEEDS HELP Roberts did a good job of jumping in at fullback, but New England could clearly benefit from some full-time help at the position. While Sony Michel had three rushing TDs, he only averaged 2.2 yards per carry. Adding a proven blocker to lead the way out of the backfield could be a target for the Patriots at the trade deadline.

STOCK UP

Tight end Ben Watson was solid in his debut, catching three passes for 18 yards. He’s no Rob Gronkowski, but his veteran presence does provide some needed stability at the position.

STOCK DOWN

It wasn’t noticeable, but LB Dont’a Hightower had his quietest game of the season, notching only one tackle.