Close Longtime Jets beat writer for New York Daily News Syracuse University graduate

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- There were still more than 11 minutes to play in the game last Sunday, but it was going so badly for the New York Jets that offensive coordinator John Morton decided enough was enough.

It's unusual for a coach to say it, but Morton acknowledged on Thursday that he just wanted to run out the clock because he felt the Jets "didn't have a chance" to rally against the Denver Broncos , who led the game 23-0.

Morton's playcalling infuriated the fan base, but it's possible he did it to protect Petty's confidence, knowing he'd likely remain in the lineup for the next game.

The Jets' clunker in Denver came after their best offensive day of the season, a 38-31 win over the Kansas City Chiefs .