Mike White made history as he guided the New York Jets to a surprising 34-31 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals.
He became the second player in NFL history, joining Cam Newton, to throw for 400 yards in his first-ever start. He also became the first Jets quarterback to throw for 400 yards and three touchdowns in a game in over 20 years.
Mike White is the 2nd player in NFL history to throw for 400+ yards in his first career start (Cam Newton).
37/44
405 YDS
3 TD
WIt’s also the first 400/3 game by a Jets QB since 1998.
— StatMuse (@statmuse) October 31, 2021
White's first drive ended with a rushing touchdown from Michael Carter, the first first-quarter touchdown the Jets have scored all season. He connected with wide receiver Braxton Berrios for a touchdown in the second quarter. The real magic occurred in the game's final period.
Article Continues BelowDown by 11 with under eight minutes left in the fourth quarter, White led a drive that ended with a touchdown pass to running back Ty Johnson. Then he threw a dot to tight end Tyler Kroft to take the lead after the Jets' defense intercepted Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow. New York ran a trick play to get White open in the end zone as a receiver on the ensuing two-point conversion. He caught the pass from wide receiver Jamison Crowder, putting the finishing touches on his historic day.
MIKE WHITE IS OVER 400 YARDS AND WE HAVE THE LEAD#CINvsNYJ on CBS pic.twitter.com/lY2lz9Bocq
— New York Jets (@nyjets) October 31, 2021
White, a rookie quarterback, was drafted in the fifth round of the 2018 draft by the Dallas Cowboys. He was cut in 2019 and has been part of the Jets' practice squad since then. He was thrust into action this week after Zach Wilson sprained his PCL last week. Head coach Robert Saleh opted for White over Joe Flacco, who New York recently traded for.
The Jets are now 2-5 following their thrilling victory. Their next game is a Thursday Night Football contest against the Indianapolis Colts.