Last week I wrote, “After a 34-13 dismantling of the Titans, the Jets have emerged as an AFC favorite.” Oops. I also wrote, “It could be a trap game, but if the Jets can stop [QB Jay] Cutler, they should continue their winning ways.” Oops again. The Jets did not stop Cutler, they lost and are no longer an AFC favorite.
Besides the Jets’ defense being shredded by Cutler, who threw a cold and wet football for 357 yards and two TDs, the Denver Broncos’ (7-5) offense exposed a flaw in the Jets (8-4). When the Jets cannot get constant pressure on the opposing QB (zero sacks or hits on Cutler), he can pick apart the Jets’ secondary.
On the offensive side of the ball, things were not much better for the Jets. Running back Thomas Jones seemed like he was only player who cared, rushing for 138 yards and two TDs.
This week, the Jets travel cross-country to face the San Francisco 49ers (4-8). The 49ers are playing for their jobs as almost no one on the roster, including interim Head Coach Mike Singletary and QB Shaun Hill, are guaranteed a starting spot. However, the 49ers are coming off a hard-fought 10-3 road win against Buffalo.
This is a game the Jets should easily win, and they need to win to keep the New England Patriots and Miami Dolphins, both a game behind at 7-5, at bay. With Pittsburgh jumping ahead of New York in the AFC standings with a 9-3 record, the Jets need to win out to have a shot at home field in the later rounds of the playoffs.
