For the second straight week, it was an unexpectedly close divisional game for the Patriots, who won their yet another close contest to open the 2013 season 2-0 with a 13-10 over the New York Jets. Once again though, the defense proved that while it might not be considered elite yet, it can hold a fourth quarter lead. The Jets, for their part, came to Gillette Stadium and showed that they can go toe-to-toe with the current version of the Patriots.

Aaron Dobson’s first quarter 39-yard touchdown catch:

Of course, it is debatable if the Jets will see a version of the Patriots that in any way resembles the current team when they play again later this season. Managing only 4-18 on third down, and short of 250 total yards, Tom Brady and the Patriots offense will have plenty of game film to review.

The good news is that they did emerge triumphant from yet another game against the rival Jets, and (because they played on Thursday night) now have additional time to prepare for week 3 opponent Tampa Bay on Sunday, September 22nd.

Facing a rookie quarterback for the second straight week, New England players, coaches and fans got a first look at Geno Smith in regular season action. And while the former-West Virginia star quarterback showed flashes of his potential, his final numbers (15-35, 214 passing yards, no touchdowns and three interceptions) were a reminder that his inexperience cannot be overcome instantly.

Smith wasn’t the only rookie who struggled, as the Patriots and their young (and injury-depleted) receiver corps failed to largely deliver. Rookie receivers Aaron Dobson and Kenbrell Thompkins were targeted a combined 17 times, yet only made five catches.

Had it not been for Julian Edelman, who once again turned in a sterling performance (totaling 13 crucial catches), things might not have ended well for Brady and the still-undefeated Patriots.

The lone touchdown for New England came almost immediately in the first quarter for the Patriots, as a well-crafted play-action move resulted in Dobson making a 39-yard-touchdown catch.

And late in the game, it was the defense that showed promising signs of life. Forcing four total turnovers, they effectively ended the game with interceptions late in the fourth quarter.

In the end, the Patriots can bemoan their lack of execution, yet they remain in a familiar position: atop the AFC East.