"Zak Kuhr did a great job filling in for Terrell Williams, to the point where he earned a promotion to full-time defensive coordinator for the upcoming season. However, with Khyiris Tonga and Anferenee Jennings leaving in free agency, this team may not be as efficient at stopping the run in 2026. They gave up just 101.7 rushing yards per game last season, which was good for sixth in the league."
"With Breece Hall landing a big contract extension, a strong offensive line, and Frank Reich now calling the shots as offensive coordinator, Bleacher Report's Moe Moton believes Hall can be a problem in the division. The Patriots have to figure out how to stop Breece Hall"
"“Although the New York Jets have struggled offensively in recent years, Breece Hall's supporting cast can help him claim this year's rushing title,” Argued Moton. “...The Jets' new offensive coordinator, Frank Reich, had a rushing champion lead his offense in 2021, when Jonathan Taylor ran for 1,811 yards. Since 2017, the 64-year-old play-caller has fielded three top-seven ground attacks in seven seasons.”"
"The Patriots swept the season series vs. the Jets last season. They did a great job of keeping Hall in check in the first matchup, but not so much in the second. He turned 14 carries into 58 rushing yards with two receptions for six yards at Gillette Stadium, and then broke out for 111 rushing yards and one touchdown on 14 carries, adding 2 catches for 18 yards."
The 2025 Patriots relied on a strong, balanced defense, with Zak Kuhr stepping in effectively for Terrell Williams and earning a promotion to full-time defensive coordinator. Departures in free agency, including Khyiris Tonga and Anferenee Jennings, could reduce effectiveness against the run in 2026. The Patriots limited opponents to 101.7 rushing yards per game last season, ranking sixth in the league. Meanwhile, the Jets may build a dominant rushing attack around Breece Hall, supported by a contract extension, a strong offensive line, and Frank Reich’s play-calling. Hall’s production against the Patriots varied, with one game limiting him and another featuring a breakout performance. The Patriots must prepare to stop Hall as divisional competition intensifies.
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