Gang Green Nation

Goat

2009-12-20T21:02:22Z

More photos » by Bill Kostroun - AP

And I don't mean greatest of all time. There's plenty of blame to go around in this loss. Nobody deserves more than the kicker. Realistic Playoff dreams died today. The game would have never been in doubt had Jay Feely done his job.

You know what else? This team doesn't deserve to go to the Playoffs. A Playoff team doesn't keep having losses like this. This has been the story of the season. Another opportunity to win squandered.

And now a trip to Indianapolis comes. Wonderful.

Try and make sense of this below. The official recap will be up later.

Atlanta Falcons at New York Jets Game Thread

2009-12-20T17:00:38Z

And a happy Sunday to those of you like me who awoke to around a foot of snow in the local area. Hope you got your shoveling done early. Once again our heroes take the field looking to keep their hopes alive. A win guarantees a .500 season at worst, which is nothing to laugh at with a rookie head coach and quarterback. Our hopes run a little higher at this point, though.

Leave comments below.

Jets Flight Connections 122009

2009-12-20T15:18:24Z

First off, if you're in the NY/NJ area, don't forget to tune in to "Jets Flight Plan" at 11:30am on WCBS-TV. You're stuck inside anyway.

The Atlanta Falcons were eliminated from playoff contention last night.

They made it to the game, so should you.

NorthJersey.com previews today's game.

Atlanta Journal Constitution says "Darrelle the Dominator" is one of the things to watch for today.

The New York Times blog also says to keep an eye on #24.

The Boston Herald mentions the Revis effect on Randy Moss.

The Mad Backer likes to talk.

FS Kerry Rhodes is back to being a starter.

Manish Mehta has a Q&A with RB Thomas Jones.

More connections after the jump.

Rich Cimini says he Jets have become tough and smart.

Gary Myers says the Jets only need to run and play tough defense.

Former GM Terry Bradway gets the credit for drafting C Nick Mangold.

RB Chauncey Washington is a highly recommended special teamer.

The Jets Blog has a list of upcoming Jets free agents.

This ESPN.com mock draft says the Jets will take a tackle.

Patriots owner Robert Kraft wants a Super Bowl in New York.

Your daily Pro Bowl reminder: you have until tomorrow to vote for your favorite Jets!

Lastly, here is video of CB Darrelle Revis having fun with kids:

...and Darrelle acting like a kid:

New York Jets Run Defense vs. Atlanta Falcons Run Offense

2009-12-20T13:32:37Z

More photos » by John Bazemore - AP

Will he play or won't he?

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Whether Michael Turner plays will make a big difference in this game. I would argue his status is even more important than that of Matt Ryan. Even if Ryan does play, he's in for a tall order coming back against this defense. It's a little easier to return at the running back position. Turner is a complete runner. He has power and explosion. Think of what we hope Shonn Greene will turn into. That's what Turner is. He's running for almost 5 yards per carry.

Behind him, things get dicier. Jerious Norwood is a talented young back. He is also explosive like Turner, but he's not as consistent. There are some big gains and some minimal gains. His first three years were great, but he's averaging less than 3.5 yards per carry this year. Behind him is Jason Snelling, a big bruiser who is mainly a power runner.

Again, because of how banged up Atlanta's offensive line is, the Jets seem to be in good shape. Given the unclear quarterback situation, the Falcons are going to try and grind things out on the ground. The Jets will probably load up the box. If Turner is out, they could have a tough time getting it done on the ground.

New York Jets Pass Defense vs. Atlanta Falcons Pass Offense

2009-12-20T13:14:54Z

More photos » by John Bazemore - AP

Chris Redman could be pressed into action for the Falcons once again.

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This is a tough spot for the Falcons. They might have their backup quarterback start against the league's top rated pass defense. They might have a starter who has missed two games and was limited in practice this week trying to shake off the rust against the league's top rated pass defense. Either way, the Jets have to like this matchup. Matt Ryan is certainly more of a playmaker, but he's turned it over 14 times in 11 starts. That's not a good sign against an opportunistic defense.

Roddy White leads the Falcons with 915 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns. He'll draw Darrelle Revis, who will probably hold him well short of his averages. Tony Gonzalez leads the Falcons with 75 receptions, emerging as a security blanket for Ryan and Chris Redman. With Revis on White and Lito Sheppard having an edge against Michael Jenkins, the Jets will be able to mix up their looks on Gonzalez a lot. The Falcons don't have many weapons in the passing game beyond those three. Their fourth leading receiver averages under 2 catches per game.

I do not think the Falcons will focus on the pass. There are too many issues at the quarterback position, and this defense is too good. Also adding to the trouble is the offensive line. Left tackle Sam Baker was limited this week by an elbow injury. Center Todd McClure was battling a knee injury. Both are probably going to play, but they will be likely less than 100%. Right guard Harvey Dahl missed last week's game with an ankle injury. You can be sure with all of this news, the Jets won't hesistate to attack Atlanta.

J-E-T-S Flight vs Falcons – Who Flies Higher?

2009-12-20T04:57:08Z

Three down, three to go. Winners of three consecutive games, the Jets go into Sunday riding a winning streak and looking to keep the momentum. Fortunately, they get the benefit of facing a team that has been terrible when playing games on the road this season..

"Hot-Lanta", a warm-weather team that is more accustomed to playing in domes, faces the tough task of traveling to the Meadowlands where they not only have to endure playing in a Sub-40 degree climate and snowy conditions, but also will likely be without both stars -- Matt Ryan AND Michael Turner.

Trouble With Moving the Chains Consistently:

ATL has struggled all year stringing together long, sustained drives. This offense is not a possession-based/"third and manageable" one like the one we run. In fact, quite the opposite. This team has lived off the big play all year but unfortunately for them they have died by it as well. Furthermore, all three of their home-run hitters may be out (Ryan, Turner, and White). Even if White does play he will be going up against Revis which will not fare well for him.

Now they are going up against the #1 defense in the NFL who has specialized in defending the big play all year. On top of that, Redman will try to throw on the #1 secondary in the NFL (148.3 ypg) - it's going to be tough for him to get in any rhythm. I see a lot of 3-and-outs leading to plenty of punts from Atlanta tomorrow.

Can we play 16 home games?

Atlanta is 1-5 playing away from the Georgia Dome. They have been a Dr.Jekyl/Mr. Hyde of home/away this season, which is certainly not surprising for a young team. The Jets also get the benefit of having them play in a climate that may be unknown and unfavorable to them. They have not played in a game temperature of under 53 degrees this season (Since playing the Giants at the Meadowlands).

29th Overall Defense:

That's what ATL is ranked, as they give up 375.7 ypg.

Seems like a recurring theme every week when we talk about how the Jets Pro-Bowl OL/#1-Ranked Rush Offense will be able to run the football at will, but nothing changes this week -- as ATL is ranked 23rd against the run giving up 117.8 ypg. They are also considerably worse on the road... where they give up 401.8 ypg... (268.2 pass/ 133.7 run).

To all Fantasy Football players -- if you're still in the running, it would be smart to start Thomas Jones tomorrow! He should have yet another big game on the ground, as his value and importance increases this week with the poor weather conditions.... and a Mark Sanchez who will be sporting two knee braces.

Motivation:

Mike Smith won the head-coaching job in Atlanta over Rex Ryan (who was a potential candidate). It's certainly plausible that he would want to send the message to the Falcon's Organization that they made the wrong choice (although Smith did do a phenomenal job last season).

Also, the Jets obviously know their backs are against the wall in this spot as they have to win out this season to stay in the playoff hunt. There is no room for a letdown or loss.

The Falcons were officially eliminated from playoff contention after the Cowboys won in the Superdome earlier tonight. What motivation will Atlanta have to get up for this game?

23-13, GangGreen rolls on -The defense and the run-game will help the Jets dominate the time of possession and shorten the game, while also controlling field position. ATL's inability to consistently gain first downs will be the death of them. Schotty will put Sanchez in a position where he simply needs to be a game-manager (as Clemens was last week), and he will do just that.

Rex on Losing the Falcons Job

2009-12-19T19:06:37Z

More photos » by Stephan Savoia - AP

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Adam Schefter on Twitter gives us a funny scoop. Rex Ryan was asked why he thought Mike Smith got the Falcons head coaching job over him two years ago.

Jets coach Rex Ryan on why he thought he didn't get Falcons job 2 years ago that went to Mike Smith: "I think I was too fat."

New York Jets Run Offense vs. Atlanta Falcons Run Defense

2009-12-19T16:31:32Z

More photos » by Brian Blanco - AP

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Whether or not the weather is poor, we will see a heavy dose of Thomas Jones against a below average run defense. Atlanta is giving up 117.8 per game on the ground and a 4.2 average. The Falcons are undersized on the defensive line aside from end Jamaal Anderson, primarily a run defender. Their tackles, Thomas Johnson and Jonathan Babineaux weigh in at 304 and 296 respectively. We know what John Abraham is, mainly an upfield pass rusher, although he hasn't been terrible against the run this year. D'Brickashaw Ferguson is a tough matchup for him though. He can match Abe's athelticism.

I like the interior line's chances against the tackles. Nick Mangold, Alan Faneca, and Brandon Moore should be able to get a good push. They will have to. Middle linebacker Curtis Lofton has been very strong in run support with 118 tackles. The outside backers, Stephen Nicholas and Mike Peterson are less accomplished run defenders. If the Jets control the point of attack, they will have to work in traffic. New York will have the Falcons right where they want them.

The Jets will probably have to operate with old friend Erik Coleman spending a lot of time in the box. Coleman has 93 tackles this year. He's the ultimate average player. He never really does much to stick out good or bad. Again, the offensive line winning battles up front and hitting the second level will be key here. If Coleman has to get off blocks, it could spring Thomas Jones for some big carries.

I think Thomas Jones won't get many breaks in this one. It doesn't seem like the coaching staff has a ton of faith in Shonn Greene after his third fumble last week. The signing of Chauncey Washington is an indication of this. He could have a big day and would be a good play in fantasy.

Jets Flight Connections 121909

2009-12-19T15:13:52Z

No surprise, Mark Sanchez will start at QB for the Jets tomorrow.

RB Thomas Jones says the whole Jets offensive line should go to the Pro Bowl.

TJ wants to stay a Jet.

Pro Football Weekly says he will.

New York Magazine has good things to say about the RB.

The Jets didn't fine LB Bart Scott, but the league did.

Marques Douglas and others gave away toys for kids in Brooklyn.

The Jets have been trying to get WR Danny Woodhead more involved in the offense.

Mike Freeman of CBSSports.com says that K Jay Feely is a good guy and may have had a point.

More connections after the jump.

The Jets want to keep The Sanchize warm on Sunday.

Aliquippa native Darrelle Revis is good friends with Seton Hall basketball's Herb Pope.

Champ Bailey's take on the best CB in football.

Adam Schein tells us his choice for Defensive Player of the Year.

If the Jets had a better record, Revis would have a better case for DPOY.

This writer from Wisconsin weighs the case for Revis and Charles Woodson.

If you had a subscription to Newsday, you would know Bob Glauber's take on it.

If you had a subscription to ESPN Insider, you would be able to read their article on AFC RBs.

The Jets know what needs to happen for them to make the playoffs, and HC Rex Ryan was rooting for the Colts on Thursday.

The Colts won't decide about resting their starters until after the weekend.

Apparently, Atlanta has never had back-to-back winning seasons.

Your daily Pro Bowl reminder: you have until Monday Dec. 21 to vote for the Jets.

Lastly, here is Jets great Earl Christy before Sunday's game at Tampa Bay:

New York Jets Pass Offense vs. Atlanta Falcons Pass Defense

2009-12-19T13:54:27Z

More photos » by Peter Morgan - AP

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Can Mark Sanchez play in bad weather? The rookie had some struggles earlier in the year in less than optimal conditions against the Titans and Bills. It's going to be a cold day at the Meadowlands, and Sanchez will be nursing a bad knee. New York's Playoff hopes depend on his ability to block out the adversity.

He should have some help. Atlanta does not have a great secondary. They give up 257.8 per contest through the air. Their starting secondary of Chris Houston, Chris Owens, Erik Coleman, and Thomas DeCoud is no better than average. Houston sat out last week and is doubtful this week. Brent Grimes will start in his place. This is a week where both Braylon Edwards and Jerricho Cotchery should have advantages in their matchups.

None of the linebackers are great in pass coverage either. Curtis Lofton, Stephen Nicholas, and Mike Peterson are all middle of the pack in pass coverage. Dustin Keller's athelticism should give him an edge here.

Up front, the Falcons are a little banged up. Old friend John Abraham, Jonathan Babineaux, and Jamaal Anderson all battled injuries in practice this week, but there isn't any indication they will sit. Abraham is the most explosive pass rusher the Falcons have. His 3.5 sacks belie his ability to win matchups. Still, you have to feel confident about D'Brickashaw Ferguson's ability to contain him the way Brick is playing. Babineaux has 5 sacks. So does Kroy Biermann, who should replace Anderson on obvious pass downs. Anderson is better against the run than getting to the quarterback. Thomas Johnson, Atlanta's other tackle, isn't much of a pass rusher.

Watch out of Nicholas on blitzes from outside linebacker. He has 3 sacks and has done a good job winning his matchups.

Overall, though, this has the makings of a nice day for Sanchez if he can handle the elements.

Warm-Weather Sanchez Will Wear Wool in Helmet Sunday

2009-12-18T20:44:36Z

On Sunday, Sanchez will be playing in his first game with a temperature below 40 degrees. The So-Cal boy's previous low was at home against Buffalo when the temperature was 44 degrees -- a game in which he threw five interceptions.

To help cope with the weather, he will be wearing a customized helmet which contains wool embedded into its padding. This soft material is very similar to the "Ugg" boots that women wear.

"We put some of the UGG boot stuff in his helmet, so he’s going to be warmer," Rex Ryan said, referring to the wool-lined footwear. "I’m not kidding. Look at his helmet. He’s got some of that in there. We try to make sure our guys are comfortable and healthy and protected."

Now they've thought of everything!

It's Official --- Sanchez to Start on Sunday

2009-12-18T19:08:08Z

image via www.nfltouchdown.com

Mark Sanchez has been named the official starter for Sunday's game against the Falcons. Not a big surprise by any means, but Rex has removed all doubt as to who would be behind center.

He will, however, be wearing two knee braces which could present some mobility concerns. That being said, with the Jets facing another weak run defense, and 20 MPH winds and snow in the forecast, it's likely that he will be handing the ball off 40-50 times and Schotty's gameplan will be conservative as it was for Clemens.

"Mark will start," Ryan said Friday. "No great surprise to anybody."

"It’s going to be a Joe Namath throwback game for Mark," Ryan said. "He slid right in front of me during practice to make sure that I knew that he was ready to go. He feels confident. He threw the ball really well today."

Good to hear.

Jets Flight Connections 121809

2009-12-18T16:09:46Z

Many thanks to the Indianapolis Colts. You guys deserve to rest.

HC Rex Ryan won't say who will start at QB on Sunday, even though we all know it will be Mark Sanchez.

WR Braylon Edwards talks about former division rival Chris Henry's death.

So does outspoken K Jay Feely.

The New York Post writes about what should be Braylon's private business.

Rex talks about CB Darrelle Revis deserving to be Defensive Player of the Year.

Read the comments on this article: some people actually think Revis gets help from the blitzes, and not the other way around.

DC Mike Pettine shares his thoughts on how the defense lures QBs towards Revis Island.

Don't forget that Lito Sheppard is a good corner, too.

And LB David "Hitman" Harris deserves to go to the Pro Bowl.

Jets Owner Woody Johnson is asking for a one-time event in 2014, a Super Bowl in the cold.

Rex and Falcons HC Mike Smith usually give each other tips on opposing teams (but probably not this week).

More connections after the jump.

The Jets defense won't be complaining if Falcons QB Matt Ryan doesn't play.

The Jets haven't done much talking lately, but letting their play speak for itself.

JetNation.com previews the game against the Falcons.

ESPN.com has AccuScore's take on the Jets' chances of winning.

Kevin Kernan compares and contrasts the two New York football head coaches.

Sanchez talks about USC teammate RB Chauncey Washington.

Former Atlanta RB Warrick Dunn will own part of the Falcons.

LB Larry to the Izzo may still play football in the future.

Don't forget to donate your old coats if you're going to the game on Sunday.

And don't forget to vote for Revis (up to #3 last time I checked), RB Thomas Jones, Hitman Harris and other deserving Jets for Pro Bowl recognition. Vote as many times as you want here until Dec. 21.

Lastly, here is video of The Sanchize practicing with the team earlier this week:

Rex Pushes Revis for DPOY

2009-12-18T12:00:38Z

More photos » by Frank Franklin II - AP

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Darrelle Revis has a supporter in his head coach for his Defensive Player of the Year candidacy.

"I went back and looked and I was going to be subtle about this, but if he’s not the NFL Defensive Player of the Year something is wrong with the system. Nobody, and I mean nobody in maybe the history of the game, has had the challenges that he’s faced week in and week out. You look at the top receivers in this game now that he’s gone out and matched with and literally almost shut down.

"I’ve been around guys that have earned it, Ray Lewis and Ed Reed. Of course, those guys deserve those awards, but I don’t think those guys even had the impact that Darrelle Revis has had on this football team. I think that’s why ... he’s earned that award."

That's quite a statement, saying Revis has had a bigger impact than Lewis and Reed. I mean, you're talking about two future Hall of Famers.

Indeed it is. If you've read this site recently, you know where I stand on this issue. Revis is an ultimate defensive weapon. He can single handedly take the other team's best weapon out of a game. Who else in the league can do this? He has had to stick with the opposition's best receiver all game and has dominated this year. That's not even close to hyperbole.

Do you agree with Rex and me?

Poll

Should Darrelle Revis win the NFL's Defensive Player of the Year?

Signs Point to Sanchez; Nothing Official

2009-12-18T10:00:21Z

by Dean Duprey - AP

View full size photo »

Mark Sanchez appears to be on track to start Sunday, but Rex Ryan is stopping short of naming a starter.

Sanchez, who missed last week’s game with a sprained right knee, practiced again today and took 75-percent of the snaps.

Ryan said Sanchez looked "much better’’ than he did in Wednesday’s practice, but he still wouldn’t name him the starter yet despite the fact that everyone in the locker room knows Sanchez is going to start.

Ryan remained reticent about naming Sanchez until he has full clearance from the doctors Friday.

That would be an increase in his workload. He took 50% of the snaps on Wednesday. That indicates he's on track to starting.

Week 15 Rooting Guide

2009-12-17T23:32:36Z

More photos » by Nam Y. Huh - AP

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The Jets currently sit at 7-6 in a four-way tie for the sixth and final playoff spot, but because of tiebreakers they are behind all of the 7-6 teams. Now if the Jets want to make the playoffs they need to win out, but also need some help. With that in mind here is this week’s rooting guide:

Indianapolis over Jacksonville- The Colts appear to be playing their starters tonight and that’s a good thing as the Jets need the Jaguars to lose. In a perfect world the Colts would rest their starters at some point during the game and still win indicating that they will rest them next week against the Jets.

Tennessee over Miami- The Jets need the Dolphins to lose as they don’t have the tiebreaker over them. Fortunately, the Titans are still alive in the playoff hunt and will give it their all to keep their slim hopes alive.

Buffalo over New England- If Buffalo could spring the upset it would be huge for the Jets. Remember the Bills should have beaten the Patriots in week one and playing in Buffalo in December is never easy.

Chicago over Baltimore- With the way the Bears have been playing recently this doesn’t seem likely, but the Bears do have talent to do so and considering the way the Steelers have played recently this may be the best shot the Ravens have at losing.

Oakland over Denver- The Raiders have been the king of the upset this year taking down the Bengals, Eagles, and Steelers. While that gives them some hope, all of the upsets came at home and this week they’re playing in Denver with Charlie Frye at the helm.

Cincinnati over San Diego- This is the most interesting game of the weekend. If the Bengals win then they will hold the tiebreaker over the Chargers. Then a win next week and a Chargers loss will clinch the second seed for the Bengals and then they might rest their starters in week 17 against the Jets. The other scenario is that the Bengals collapse, lose their next two games and stumble into a week 17 game against a red hot Jets team. The first scenario is more likely to happen, so I’ll be rooting for the Bengals.

Houston over St. Louis- This isn’t as important as the other games, but the Texans do play the Dolphins and Patriots in the last two weeks and a win this week will keep them hanging around as they play to save their coach’s job.

Pittsburgh over Green Bay- Similar to the Texans, the Steelers play the Dolphins and Ravens the last two weeks of the season and if they lose this week they may decide to shut down some of their starters for the season.

New Meadowlands Gets Preliminary Approval for SB In 2014

2009-12-17T21:12:40Z

According to the Jets official website, the New Meadowlands Stadium has been given preliminary approval to host the 2014 Super Bowl. In a unusual move a northern city is under consideration with the understanding that this is a 'unique' bid.

After receiving preliminary approval to bid from the National Football League, the future home of the New York Jets and New York Giants is mounting a full-scale campaign to capture the hosting rights for Super Bowl 2014, the New Meadowlands Stadium Company announced today.

The new stadium, which plays host to its first NFL season in 2010, got the go-ahead from the NFL owners' Super Bowl Advisory Committee, which approved the New Meadowlands Stadium's application to bid despite the traditional requirement that Super Bowl host regions have a minimum temperature of 50 degrees or a climate-controlled indoor stadium.

The approval was granted with the understanding that the bid would be a unique, once-only circumstance based on the opportunity to celebrate the new stadium and the great heritage and history of the NFL in the New York region.

The preliminary proposal is due on April 1st with the winner announced at the end of May. This would offer a great deal of revenue and work to the NY/NJ area, Bringing the biggest game in football to the biggest stage in the world. The bid committee will be chaired by Woody Johnson and has already received support from New Jersey Gov.-elect Chris Christie, New Jersey Gov. Jon Corzine, New York Gov. David Paterson and New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg.

Sanchez practiced full on Thursday and took 75 percent of the reps at quarterback. Rex Ryan is...

2009-12-17T20:41:41Z

Sanchez practiced full on Thursday and took 75 percent of the reps at quarterback. Rex Ryan is "optimistic" that Sanchez is going to start on Sunday against Atlanta, but he should know for sure on Friday. "He was more confident today moving around than yesterday," said Ryan. "I want to make sure that he feels fine on Friday morning, and the knee isn't going to be limited where it's a hinderance."

Dan Leberfeld- Jets Confidential

Ryan Skips Practice

2009-12-17T17:30:28Z

More photos » by John Bazemore - AP

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While Mark Sanchez hit the practice field yesterday, Matt Ryan sat out for Atlanta.

Atlanta Falcons coach Mike Smith just announced on a conference call with Jets beat reporters that quarterback Matt Ryan and running back Michael Turner will not practice today. Their status is day-to-day.
Ryan has missed the past two games -- both Falcons losses -- with a turf toe injury on his right foot suffered in Week 12 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

This certainly makes it less likely Ryan sees action Sunday. Remember, he's rusty. He needs to get on the field to get his timing back. If he still can't practice, it could be a sign we're going to see Chris Redman.

Revis and other collected thoughts

2009-12-17T17:21:10Z

Why are teams still throwing at Revis? As David_Wyatt pointed out his 39% completion rating for receiver targets is about 10 points better than the next corner, he leads the league in passes defensed with 27 (second place is 19), and he has 6 interceptions.

I have two answer, but am open to input. 1) Unlike most corners who cover a side of the field and pick up that receiver, or who play a zone, Revis covers the top receiver. No matter how good a corner is, a QB will always target their top receiver. Partly because QBs are trained to believe that in a one on one their top receiver can usually beat a corner and partly because more plays are called for top receivers. 2) Revis' coverage style seems somewhat unique. He tends to play the ball a lot more than other corners I watch who generally track receivers. When making a quick decision a QB may think his receiver has a step because Revis has the inside position and is giving a little space, but he closes faster and more effectively than anyone else. He often simply beats receivers to the ball. I have never seen a cornerback like him in my life. It's tempting to play the "how good will he be when..." game, I don't know, I played that game with Jose Reyes, he seems to have topped out. I'm just enjoying watching someone of his extraordinary talent and work ethic. If he stays at this level for a while, I will be ecstatic.

Why I like Rex Ryan. I'm tired of players and coaches always getting up and talking about being the underdog and the adversity they've overcome. It seems everyone is trying to set the bar low and outperform or maybe just cover their ass when they lose. Rex said early on that this is an elite team. He may not be right as of yet, but its nice to see someone unabashed about their desire to win. He is not trying to not lose his job, he's trying to win games. Many people have commented on how his brashness has rubbed off on the team, but I'm more interested in how his willingness to take responsibility has rubbed off. Players on this team own up to mistakes, he owns up to mistakes. He believes they can win every game. They won't win every game, but they can win each game. I respect his boldness. He is the type of person you follow.

Sanchez. As Jets fans we've had a surprising number of good quarterbacks over the years, more than our share of let downs, and only one truly great one. It's too early to know what will happen with Sanchez, but I'm a big fan of his. I tempered my excitement the first 3 weeks because each game I saw a pass or two that could have been intercepted. In the disastrous Buffalo, New Orleans, and New England games I tried to temper my concerns because many of those interceptions weren't terrible throws including a few tips. He has some things to work out as is to be expected of a rookie, but of his 12 games he has had 8 good ones, 1 mediocre, and 3 awful (I'm using the simplistic measurement of passer rating as a guide). I don't know what else to expect. He is one of the 5 lowest rated passers in the league, along with the other 2 rookies and JaMarcus Russell and Jake Delhomme, but I think next year he'll be in the middle of the pack. The year after we'll see what we really have.

Shonn Greene - he'll figure out the fumbles. when he does, I am really excited about him. He is much faster than I expected. He can run the old Curtis Martin toss play, which we haven't had since his departure. We haven't seen the spin moves and such yet, which is good. Focus on holding the ball, once you've got that, then we can get fancy. I don't understand how so many teams passed on him, there are a lot of teams that need running backs.

Same old Jets - The symptoms of not winning for 40 years are that you expect not to win. I saw this with a Red Sox fan friend of mine. He was convinced they would blow every lead until they finally won in 2004. Now he doesn't think that, but he also doesn't have the passion for the team he once had. He sits back and watches games, he used to pound on the table, clap obnoxiously when they did win something, and obsess. It is somewhat circular though - teams who haven't won focus on how they could have won. On what went wrong. On what could have been. Teams who have won recently don't need to bother. Sometimes it is a matter of how the ball bounces or whether the Tuck rule is invented just for you, but really all the angst and failure washes away the second you win. The Patriots and Red Sox were big losers for years, now people think of them as elite franchises. Winning is contagious, but its more than that. We think of history as inevitable and indicative of the future. It is neither. The day the Jets win the Superbowl (g-d willing soon) 'same old Jets' will be dead. Not because some magical curse is lifted, but because the whole problem is a lack of winning, once that's gone, it's gone. At least for a while.

Draft picks - I have a thesis with almost no research behind it. GMs vastly overrate their own ability to draft. That's why the Jets could get Kris Jenkins an all world NT for a few picks. Its why they got Sheppard and Edwards for conditional mid-level picks, but also why they got painfully little for Vilma. Basically, I think Tannenbaum has figured this out and knows every GM thinks they are going to pick the next Tom Brady with a 6th round pick, rather than realizing they are just as likely to pick the next JaMarcus Russell or Dwayne Robertson or Vernon Ghoslton with a top 5 pick. If you can get a pro-bowler for draft picks do it. Because you have to pay some of these early picks like pro-bowlers and so few of them actually become them. Tannenbaum is called 'aggressive' by colleagues for trading picks so frequently, but I think he has simply uncovered an inefficiency in the market along the lines of Billy Beene and statistical baseball scouting. Has anyone seen any research on this? Anyone think I'm an idiot?

Those are the thoughts I've been sitting on for a while, what say you GGN?