SPORTS WRAP
BY WILLIAM HATHAWAY, JR.
PHOTOS BY FELICIA LAGUERRE OWENS
The National Football League wrapped up its preseason slate this past weekend, with one of the games featuring the annual MetLife Stadium Snoopy Bowl between the New York Jets and New York Giants.
Despite both teams calling the venue home, the Giants were the designated “home” team. Of course, the big story was the unofficial debut of new Jets QB Aaron Rodgers. The future hall of famer did not disappoint, leading his new team to a score on the first drive thanks to a 14-yard TD pass to Garrett Wilson.
Later on, Gang Green cornerback Brandin Echolas picked off Giants backup Tommy Devito and took it back 67 yards for a TD. It comes as bittersweet for Echolas, who will be suspended for the first game of the season.
Despite the pick, DeVito did finish 19-29 for 210 yards with a late TD pass to David Sills, who had 6 catches for 81 years in the contest.
Former Jets starter Zach Wilson led the team after Rodgers was done, and went 11-18 for 107 yards. Jashaun Corbin had a 1 yard Run for Big Blue in the 2nd quarter to make the score 14-7.
In a battle of big legs that could hit from 60, Graham Gano had more chances to show off, hitting from 57, 40, and 56 yards in the game. His Jets counterpart Greg Zuerlein hit one from 29.
After the Giants cut the deficit to 17-16 in the 4th quarter, Jets 3rd string QB Tim Boyle tossed a 4 yard TD pass to Alex Erickson, and then a 2 point conversion to Jason Brownlee. Boyle and Erickson connected again from 14 yards later, which was followed by DeVito throwing another TD to Sills, with the game already decided.
When it was all said and done, the Jets beat the Giants 32-24. However, the story is not finished for 2023, as the two teams will meet again in Week 8 of the real season.
