Jets Show Signs Of Life Despite Loss In Chicago: The Good & Bad Heading To The Playoffs

Author: Mike Mitolo

When Jay Cutler knelt for the last time Sunday to wrap up the 38-34 Chicago Bear victory, Jet followers were left wondering if the season would be coming down to the final game of the year.

NYJ fans wouldn’t have to wait long for an answer, as Redskin kicker Graham Gano kicked the Jets into the playoffs, back-to-back years, for only the fifth time in team history

What to take out of the Bear game….

The Good

You can start with D’Brickashaw Ferguson and Co. shutting down Julius Peppers, and the vast improvement of Wayne Hunter at Right Tackle.

The offense is beginning to find a rhythm, Mark Sanchez who looked good in the snow, making some pinpoint throws, played extremely well, though at times leaving receivers wide open, he eventually locked into his progressions as the game moved on.

When # 6 did find his receivers, they actually caught the ball.

Running for 124 yards against the leagues 3^rd best run defense and more importantly getting 7 points to finish off drives are both great signs as well.

Nick Folk is remembering how to kick again and Brad Smith actually throwing out of the wildcat provided a new wrinkle many wanted to see all year.

The Bad

Aside from Dwight Lowery’s solid performance, a poor defensive effort is largely to blame for the loss in Chicago, a disappearing run “D”, no pressure on the quarterback, a lot of poor tackling ­­and a bad day for Cromartie and Coleman.

Despite all this, some plays were made by a patchwork defense whose being asked to do a lot.

Not exactly last year’s defense, which batted down balls, and bore down on tight ends and slot receivers. This year’s defense scares no one. Injuries withstanding, it has talent.

It seems like, just not enough of it.

With last Sunday’s performance excluded, the running game has not been the same, some say LaDainian Tomlinson has begun to show wear and tear, but with Shonn Greene’s fumbling problems and ineffectiveness in short yardage situations, Tomlinson remains the leading Jet rusher (914 yds.)

If Shonn Greene can turn it up in January, it might be the X-factor the Jets need in the playoffs.

Once again the coaching staff has been left in questionable standing.

Setting up for a fake punt with the starting quarterback and #1 receiver still in, was not surprising anyone, and whoever decided to kick to Devin Hester should join Sal Alosi in stupidville.

Special Teams: See Devin Hester

This Sunday vs. the Bills, Gang Green will have one more week to get all 3 phases of they’re game in sync before the playoffs.