New York Jets’ Big 3 can’t say enough about ‘great dude’ Jeff Ulbrich | Sporting News

It took a few weeks longer than one had hoped, but better late than never for New York Jets‘ interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich.

The Jets had lost the first three games since promoting the defensive coordinator to replace Robert Saleh, but that changed on Thursday Night Football. New York posted a 21-13 win over the reigning AFC South champion Houston Texans to reward Ulbrich, a first-time NFL head coach, with the milestone victory.

“That felt good, just mad it took this long,” said running back Breece Hall. “Now, we just gotta build on it.”

Hall, who is arguably the key to the Jets’ offense, rushed 15 times for 74 yards to go with 11 yards receiving.

The top offensive star of the night, however, was none other than wide receiver Garrett Wilson. The WR1 made two one-handed touchdown receptions, including an absolute gem that rivals former New York Giants‘ receiver Odell Beckham famed grab at MetLife Stadium.

Wilson, who caught 9 of 10 targets for 90 yards, didn’t appear to mind sharing the moment with his head coach, who is affectionately known as “Brick” at 1 Jets Drive.

“That’s a great dude,” said Wilson. “He doesn’t take any of this for granted. To get him his first win, to be a part of that, I know how we all felt about it. He’s deserving.”

Future Hall-of-Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers contributed three touchdown passes and a 118.1 quarterback rating to Ulbrich’s special night.

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“Jeff’s been really steady. It’s been a few weeks in the making. I told him after the Tae touchdown, that was for you, buddy,” said Rodgers. “We love him, care about him. We appreciate the energy he brings to it, his approach, just the kind of man he is. Good to get that first one.”

The Jets will have some time to enjoy the important win with 10 days before their Week 10 cross-country trip to face the Arizona Cardinals on November 10.

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