3 things we learned in the Jets’ 24-18 win over the Eagles

East Rutherford, N.J. — With the New York Jets having answered most of their questions in their previoustwo preseason games (both wins), the fourth and final preseason game was less about a victoryand more about evaluating the bottom of the roster. But the Jets’ second and third string playersdidn’t lookbad in their 24-18 win over the Philadelphia Eagles.

There were some good signs, with the starters and more prominent players who did suit-up doing what was expected of them and showing well. So there shouldn’t be any surprise cuts this weekend when the Jets trim their rosters down to get to the 53-man limit.

In theory, that is.

(Oh yes and Tim Tebow played and the former Jets quarterback had some nice touches including an 18-yard pass to Rasheed Bailey in the second quarter).

Three Things We Learned from the Jets Fourth Preseason Game:

Matt Flynn Debuts -The recently signed Flynn got his first reps of preseason, having sat behind Ryan Fitzpatrick and Bryce Petty the last two games. Flynn is the insurance policy until Geno Smith returns from his injured jaw, sometime around the fourth game of the season. Playing against the Eagles backups, Flynn orchestrated an eight-play, 54-yard drive on his first series, capping it off with a pretty ball over the top of the Eagles secondary for an 18-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Chris Owusu. Then on their second series, he connected with Walt Powell on a 28-yard pass again over the top. But his second quarter interception intended for Walter Powell was one where he locked-in on his target. No bueno. Flynn put enough on tape that some team will sign him when a quarterback gets injured.

The Stacy Case – Last week, it was his leaping touchdown into the end zone off a screen pass that caught all the attention but running back Zac Stacy showed just how versatile he can be. He had a touchdown early in the second quarter and rushed for 68yards, often after churning out tough yards behind a makeshift offensive line. It was good, consistent running from their third-year player.

Another Win – Yes, it is just preseason but the Jets finished 3-1 in the exhibition slate, something that has to feel good for a team that had four wins all of last year. Perhaps there is a little momentum here in play, especially after a grueling training camp and some off the field distractions. But more than anything, three wins out of four for a team that has failed to make the playoffs the past four seasons gives them some positivity heading into the season. Winning can be infectious.