The most-maligned aspect of the Jets became its biggest strength on Sunday.
The run defense — more sieve than deterrent in the first two weeks — was presented with the considerable challenge of slowing a Miami running game headlined by Jay Ajayi and met it effectively. Ajayi managed 16 yards on 11 carries and the Dolphins totaled just 30 yards on the ground in the Jets 20-6 triumph at MetLife Stadium.
The change was stark. The Jets allowed a total of 370 rushing yards in the first two weeks.
“We got challenged the first two games of the season and gave up way too many running yards.