By WFAN.com

There were many reasons to be impressed with Sam Darnold in the Jets' 48-17 win Monday night over the Detroit Lions. But Jamal Adams said he most liked how the rookie quarterback didn't let his pick-six on the first play from scrimmage rattle him.

"What makes Sam so special, man, is that he was so mature," Adams told WFAN's "Carlin, Bart and Maggie" on Tuesday. "He went out there that next series. He threw it behind him, and he went out like a champ, man. So hat's off to Sam having that mentality to go out there and continue to listen to the game plan, be confident in yourself and understand that we're there for one reason, and it doesn't matter how you start; it's how you finish.

"He's just so mature. I always joke with him and tell him he's like a vet. He's obviously the youngest on the team, but he has a mindset of a champion. He works his butt off each and every day."

Adams said the entire team kept its composure after Quandre Diggs' interception return for a TD just 20 seconds into the season opener.

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"I told everybody do not blink, don't flinch," Adams said. "And the whole team, we were smiling. We were in great spirits."

The Jets then went on to intercept Lions quarterbacks five times on the night, including the first career pick by Adams.

"I think we had a great game plan, man," the 2017 first-round draft pick said. "I think that guys were flying around the ball. Guys were doing what we were coached to do."

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Adams said the blowout victory sent a message that the Jets can be special this season.

"We don't want to get too high; we don't want to get too low," he said. "But at the same time, we've got to enjoy this win. It's a 24-hour rule. After today, it's on to the Miami Dolphins."

To listen to the interview, click on the audio player above.