New York Jets running back Breece Hall made his triumphant return to Empower Field at Mile High on Sunday, where he had received devastating news about his torn ACL last October. However, this time, Hall walked into the visitor's locker room with a different mindset. Instead of dwelling on the past, he focused on the present and delivered a performance that showcased his speed and power.
With a career-high of 177 rushing yards on 22 attempts, Hall played a pivotal role in the Jets' 31-21 victory over the Denver Broncos. His exceptional performance served as an equalizer for the team, compensating for the absence of Aaron Rodgers' leadership at quarterback. This win demonstrated that Hall has the potential to carry the offense and make a significant impact.
Although quarterback Zach Wilson had a decent performance, throwing for 199 yards, the Jets struggled in the red zone, going 0-for-5 against the Broncos' 32nd-ranked scoring defense. Fortunately, Hall's exceptional play compensated for this deficiency.
Reflecting on his return, Hall expressed his confidence, stating, "I'm new and improved now. I've got my robot knee, so I'm good." His presence on the field has proven to be a game-changer for the Jets.
In the 2022 season, the Jets boasted a 5-2 record with Hall in the lineup, including a victory against the Broncos in Denver. Sadly, Hall's rookie year was cut short due to his injury, resulting in the team's decline and a 7-10 record in their remaining games. However, with Hall back in action, the Jets believe they have the right formula for success – a strong defense and a formidable rushing attack.
Despite missing a significant portion of the season due to injury, Hall has already accumulated 387 rushing yards on 54 carries, ranking sixth in the NFL. His impressive average of 7.2 yards per carry places him second among qualified runners. Hall's deceptive running style, combined with his immense power, has made him a force to be reckoned with.
During the game against the Broncos, Hall showcased his explosive speed on a 72-yard touchdown run. With a top speed of 21.5 mph, he left defenders in the dust. Hall's ability to find the right openings and navigate through the defense has been a game-changer for the Jets.
While the offensive line played a crucial role in Hall's success, injuries have become a concern. Right tackle Alijah Vera-Tucker will miss the rest of the season with a torn Achilles, forcing the Jets to make adjustments. Despite this setback, Hall has proven that he can create opportunities for himself, surpassing expectations by 179 rushing yards.
Coach Robert Saleh praised Hall's performance, stating, "He's pretty good, isn't he?" The Jets are undoubtedly grateful to have a player of Hall's caliber on their team and look forward to his continued success.
