The Jets are the only team that was a part of the original AFL/NFL merger that has yet to win a conference championship. Even teams like the Cincinnati Bengals and Buffalo Bills, that have never won a Super Bowl, have at least made it to the promise land. We're the Red Sox of Football, but the Red Sox have finally gotten over the Curse of the Bambino. The New York Jets and their fans are still working on the Curse of Broadway Joe Namath.
It was January 12, 1969 when the Jets won Super Bowl III against the Baltimore Colts in what many people say is one of the greatest upsets in sports history. I wasn't even alive, hell my dad wasn't even producing the hormones necessary to even think about the process necessary to have me. Still, that game, the prediction from Namath, and how he jogged off the field with one finger held high when it was all in the books, is the greatest Jets memory I never had. It's what drives Jet fans young and old to this day, the chance, albeit the small chance, that the New York Jets would eventually return to glory.
A year later in 1970, the two leagues, AFL and NFL merged into the NFL that we know today. Now the league is two conferences, AFC and NFC, competing for one goal, the Super Bowl. The Jets obviously haven't won a Super Bowl since 1969, they haven't even been to one. Beating the dead horse, they're only orignal team from the merger that hasn't been to a Super Bowl since. Depressing, right?
Why even bother supporting a team that you're nearly positive will disappoint you in the end? The answer is in the question. Nearly positive, not positive. I still have faith that one day the Jets will win it all and literally I will be the happiest person on earth. If I had one wish, would it be for world peace? No. It would be for a Jet Super Bowl. Plus, over the years the Jets have shown signs of life that renew the faith of the Jet faithful. And at the same time it is the romantic notion of the underdog that keeps Jet fans going. After all these years of suffering, will it ever eventually pay off? And if it does, will it be what I imagined? It's like Romeo and Juliet, they finally wind up together and next thing you know they're both dead.
Really, why am I so passionate about this team in green? The memories. Even though they're usually brief and few and far between, it is the memories of great Jet wins that keep me coming back for more. For me, my true die hard Jet fan status started in the 1998-99 season with the legendary Bill Parcels as head coach, father time, Vinny Testeverde at quarterback and Curtis "My Favorite" Martin at running back. The Jets went 12-4 in the regular season and earned their first AFC East Title and first round playoff bye. In the divisional round of the playoffs against the Jacksonville Jaguars I was forever moved. Up until that point, I was used to sitting in my seat at a live Jets game. This time, I stood along with everyone else at Giant Stadium the whole time. The atmosphere, the Jets Chants, everything about that game, made me a true die hard Jet fan. I was 10 years old. The Jets eventually lost in the AFC Championship game to the Denver Broncos after leading by 7 at halftime. The disappointment we've all grown accustomed to.
The next big game in my life was the last game of the 2002-03 regular season against the Green Bay Packers. There was the potential for a three way tie in the AFC East. The Dolphins controlled their own destiny with a 9-6 record going into their final game against the Patriots who were a game behind at 8-7. The Jets were also 8-7 taking on the Packers at Giant Stadium. To win the division, the Jets needed to have the Patriots beat the Dolphins in a 1pm game and the Jets needed to beat the Packers at 4pm. The Dolphins were beating up on the Pats the whole game. Jet fans walked inside Giant Stadium with little hope knowing the Pats were losing with little time left. In the short span of time it took for Jet fans to get inside the stadium, the Patriots were making a comeback. It all came down to an Adam Vinatieri field goal and the Patriots would have pulled off the improbable comeback. Wisely, the folks at Giant Stadium decided to play that kick on the big screen. When Vinatieri nailed that kick and the Pats won, there was no chance the Jets would lose to the Packers. The rest of the Jets game, the whole stadium was on their feet and the Jets dominated. We won the division for the second time in franchise history. The next week we beat the Colts 40-0 in the playoffs but eventually lost to Oakland to end the storied run.
Then it has been the last two seasons that keep me coming back for more Jet football. Two years ago, earning a wild card playoff spot, beating the Bengals on the road and then beating the Chargers the next week. Up until that point, it was happiest day of my life. In the AFC Championship, we lost to the Colts after leading at the half. Eerily similar to the AFC Championship loss to the Broncos in 1999.
The following year, again earning another wild card spot and getting revenge against the Colts in the first round. The following week taking on the hated Patriots at their house for the third time that year. Weeks earlier, the Jets were embarrassed by the Pats in Foxborough
There's plenty of reasons why I've always been a diehard Jet fan and will always be a diehard Jet fan. You can't go through all the things Jet fans go through and not feel this fierce connection to this team. This year has been a struggle, but so have the last two years and they have come with some significant rewards. The only difference this year has been the expectations because we've been so successful the last two years, which brings me to the lessons learned.
1) Don't have expectations.
2) When you're a Jet, you're a Jet all the way.
J-E-T-S
JETS
JETS
JETS
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Four More...
The New York Jets have had a roller coaster season up to this point. It has been a season of ups and downs, of winning streaks and losing streaks. The Jets strung a pair of W's together to start the season and followed that by a three game skid. Then they manage to win three in row to put us in contention with the Patriots for the top of the AFC East. They blow that with a pair of losses and now are riding a 2 game win streak for the third time this season.
Is this the road map for post season football come January? Not for most teams, but the Jets aren't most teams. We're 7-5 heading into a crucial 4 game stretch, but three other AFC teams share the 7-5 record. The kicker is if the season ended today, the Jets would miss out on the playoffs. We don't control our own destiny. Even if we do win out the rest of the season and make it to 11-5, usually a shoe in the playoff, there's still a good chance that we're on the outside looking in.
The good news is that of the four remaining games on the Jets' schedule, each of them are very winnable. This Sunday, we take on the struggling Kansas City Chiefs at MetLife Stadium and then hit the road to take on the even more embarrassing Philadelphia Eagles. All of the sudden it is Christmas Eve and the Jets welcome our inter-stadium rivals, the New York Giants. Tough to say the Jets will have home field advantage even though it is a Jets home game. I expect a lot of blue shirts in the stands of JetLife stadium that night before Christmas. We finish the season at Miami with a Dolphin team that has managed to put up some good fights in their disappointing season. And considering they haven't been in playoff contention since Chad Pennington, they are used to playing the spoiler.
All in all, I'm confident an 11-5 record will get the Jets into their third straight post season. I even see the possibility of a 10-6 record doing the job maybe. However, that's leaving a lot to chance. There's too much chance involved even if we finish 11-5. But this is what Jet fans live for. We live for the drama, the suspense, and the stress. It is a long history of suffering, with brief moments of success, like heroin, that keep us coming back for more. I've said it a million times, if you're going to be a Jet fan, you have to be a glutton for punishment.
Is this the road map for post season football come January? Not for most teams, but the Jets aren't most teams. We're 7-5 heading into a crucial 4 game stretch, but three other AFC teams share the 7-5 record. The kicker is if the season ended today, the Jets would miss out on the playoffs. We don't control our own destiny. Even if we do win out the rest of the season and make it to 11-5, usually a shoe in the playoff, there's still a good chance that we're on the outside looking in.
The good news is that of the four remaining games on the Jets' schedule, each of them are very winnable. This Sunday, we take on the struggling Kansas City Chiefs at MetLife Stadium and then hit the road to take on the even more embarrassing Philadelphia Eagles. All of the sudden it is Christmas Eve and the Jets welcome our inter-stadium rivals, the New York Giants. Tough to say the Jets will have home field advantage even though it is a Jets home game. I expect a lot of blue shirts in the stands of JetLife stadium that night before Christmas. We finish the season at Miami with a Dolphin team that has managed to put up some good fights in their disappointing season. And considering they haven't been in playoff contention since Chad Pennington, they are used to playing the spoiler.
All in all, I'm confident an 11-5 record will get the Jets into their third straight post season. I even see the possibility of a 10-6 record doing the job maybe. However, that's leaving a lot to chance. There's too much chance involved even if we finish 11-5. But this is what Jet fans live for. We live for the drama, the suspense, and the stress. It is a long history of suffering, with brief moments of success, like heroin, that keep us coming back for more. I've said it a million times, if you're going to be a Jet fan, you have to be a glutton for punishment.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Playoff Hopes... Still Alive
It was September in November in downtown, East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Jets found themselves down by 3 to the Buffalo Bills with under six minutes remaining. It had been a sloppy day for the Jets who maintained a steady lead throughout the majority of the game.
They had lost the lead late in the fourth quarter thanks to Antonio Cromartie. The baby daddy to a baker's dozen was given the call by Special Teams Coach Mike Westhoff to field a Buffalo punt after an excellent defensive stop from the Jets. Up until that point it was Jim Leonard retuning punts because the Jets, specifically Cromartie have had trouble muffing punts and kickoffs. So Westhoff took a chance on Cromartie who does have better speed than Leonard and lo and behold, Cromartie fumbles and gives the Bills the ball with great field position and a chance to take the lead.
On the first play of the Bills drive, Ryan Fitzpatrick notices ex-Jet Brad Smith lined up one on one against.... Antonio Cromartie. The ball was snapped and before you knew it, Brad Smith had caught a 36 yard touchdown pass against his former teammate.
The Jets fielded the ensuing kickoff and returned it to their own 18 yard line. Now it was up to Mark Sanchez, who has pulled off a number of fourth quarter comebacks in his short career. He had thrown three touchdown passes in the game already, but still managed to look like a rookie like he's done often this season. The Jets had plenty of time, a couple timeouts, but there was no doubt they needed this drive. If they don't score they give the ball back to the Bills who in all likelihood would be able to run out the clock for the win.
With 82 yards of field in front of him, Mark Sanchez was under center to start another potential game winning drive. The Jets were able to string together a first down while eating up a good portion of the clock on a couple running plays. Then with a fresh set of downs, Shonn Greene gets stuffed for a two yard gain. Now a crucial 2nd and 8 play with 3:40 on the clock, Sanchez notices the Bills free safety move to the line of scrimmage which leaves Plaxico Burress in one on one coverage wide left. Sanchez fired a pass 12 yards down the field to the sideline where Burress made an excellent catch and got both feet in bounds for a first down.
Things quickly got interesting in the next set of downs. Jets have the ball now 3rd and 8 from the Bills' 47 yard line. Sanchez decided to go to Patrick Turner, the practice squad player of the game. Turner runs a 12 yard out route and with his big 6'5" frame hauls down a poorly thrown Sanchez pass for another Jet First down.
Next set of downs, Jets find themselves in another 3rd down situation from the Bills 36, this time with 11 yards to go after a Jet penalty. The had successfully run the clock down to the two minute warning when Sanchez took the 3rd down snap. The Bills brought a corner back blitz which left Plaxico Burress lined up against a safety. But with the corner blitz Sanchez had practically no time to throw. Fortunately when you have Plaxico Burress lined up against a safety, you simply just throw the ball in the air and odd are, he'll come down with it. That's exactly what happened. Sanchez threw up a prayer and it took an amazing one handed catch along the sideline 17yard down the field from Plaxico. This not only saved the game but may have saved the season for gang green.
Two plays later Sanchez found Santonio Holmes for an 16 yard touchdown pass to give the Jets the lead at 28-24 with 1:02 left in the game. This drive of the week, nay, drive of the season went for 12 plays, 82 yards and took 4:43 off the clock.
The Bills drove down the field with the little time they had and three timeouts. They made it into field goal range but down by four they needed a touchdown and only a touchdown and that touchdown they did not get. The Jets now improve their record to 6-5 thanks to Plaxico Burress and Mark Sanchez.
I'm sorry Mark for saying you suck... just please don't suck against Washington this week. And Plax... thanks for shooting yourself in the leg. You'd probably still be a Giant if you did.
They had lost the lead late in the fourth quarter thanks to Antonio Cromartie. The baby daddy to a baker's dozen was given the call by Special Teams Coach Mike Westhoff to field a Buffalo punt after an excellent defensive stop from the Jets. Up until that point it was Jim Leonard retuning punts because the Jets, specifically Cromartie have had trouble muffing punts and kickoffs. So Westhoff took a chance on Cromartie who does have better speed than Leonard and lo and behold, Cromartie fumbles and gives the Bills the ball with great field position and a chance to take the lead.
On the first play of the Bills drive, Ryan Fitzpatrick notices ex-Jet Brad Smith lined up one on one against.... Antonio Cromartie. The ball was snapped and before you knew it, Brad Smith had caught a 36 yard touchdown pass against his former teammate.
The Jets fielded the ensuing kickoff and returned it to their own 18 yard line. Now it was up to Mark Sanchez, who has pulled off a number of fourth quarter comebacks in his short career. He had thrown three touchdown passes in the game already, but still managed to look like a rookie like he's done often this season. The Jets had plenty of time, a couple timeouts, but there was no doubt they needed this drive. If they don't score they give the ball back to the Bills who in all likelihood would be able to run out the clock for the win.
With 82 yards of field in front of him, Mark Sanchez was under center to start another potential game winning drive. The Jets were able to string together a first down while eating up a good portion of the clock on a couple running plays. Then with a fresh set of downs, Shonn Greene gets stuffed for a two yard gain. Now a crucial 2nd and 8 play with 3:40 on the clock, Sanchez notices the Bills free safety move to the line of scrimmage which leaves Plaxico Burress in one on one coverage wide left. Sanchez fired a pass 12 yards down the field to the sideline where Burress made an excellent catch and got both feet in bounds for a first down.
Things quickly got interesting in the next set of downs. Jets have the ball now 3rd and 8 from the Bills' 47 yard line. Sanchez decided to go to Patrick Turner, the practice squad player of the game. Turner runs a 12 yard out route and with his big 6'5" frame hauls down a poorly thrown Sanchez pass for another Jet First down.
Next set of downs, Jets find themselves in another 3rd down situation from the Bills 36, this time with 11 yards to go after a Jet penalty. The had successfully run the clock down to the two minute warning when Sanchez took the 3rd down snap. The Bills brought a corner back blitz which left Plaxico Burress lined up against a safety. But with the corner blitz Sanchez had practically no time to throw. Fortunately when you have Plaxico Burress lined up against a safety, you simply just throw the ball in the air and odd are, he'll come down with it. That's exactly what happened. Sanchez threw up a prayer and it took an amazing one handed catch along the sideline 17yard down the field from Plaxico. This not only saved the game but may have saved the season for gang green.
"The Catch"
The Bills drove down the field with the little time they had and three timeouts. They made it into field goal range but down by four they needed a touchdown and only a touchdown and that touchdown they did not get. The Jets now improve their record to 6-5 thanks to Plaxico Burress and Mark Sanchez.
I'm sorry Mark for saying you suck... just please don't suck against Washington this week. And Plax... thanks for shooting yourself in the leg. You'd probably still be a Giant if you did.
From JetLife Stadium...
There's no better time to talk to some real die hard Jet fans when the season is right on the brink if collapse. That's what I got the chance to do Sunday in the parking lot of MetLife Stadium. These were some real fans who give a true fan's perspective.
"If they sh*t the bed this year I'll be more disappointed than I've ever been as a Jet's fan," said Ken O'Boyle Sr, father of yours truly and 20 year season ticket holder. "If your gonna talk the talk, you gotta walk the walk."
My Dad loves using stupid cliches, but he's right. We've been promised two going on three super bowls already. We've come too close twice and failed at the doorstep. This year Jet fans were confident.
"Jet fans are never confident!" screamed Bob Payne, long time Jet fan and season ticket holder from Long Island (Those are some hardcore Jets Fans out there). "The year after we lost to the Colts in the AFC Championship, I wasn't confident, but we did it again and lost to the stupid Steelers. This year was the year."
Payne had sat behind me with his buddy "EggHead" practically all my life going to Jet games. When the new stadium came along, every body's seats changed. Some people from the old section 140 didn't even buy season tickets at the new stadium because they're so damn expensive. The happy ending to the Payne and EggHead story is, even though we don't sit in the same section anymore, we tailgate together, which is something we didn't even do at the old stadium.
"You have to beat the Bills today," said Steve "Egghead" Taggart (I felt so weird asking him his real name). "I don't care how they do it. Pretty, sloppy, who gives a sh*t. You can't afford to lose anymore. And if we do win out, I still we get screwed out of a home playoff game.
Payne and EggHead didn't make the playoff road trips my family made the last two seasons. But EggHead is right. We pretty much have to be perfect the rest of the way if we're going to have a shot at the postseason and even still the Patriots will probably have a better record and win the division. And we had a sloppy win against the Bills.
Payne and EggHead are some of the best Jets fans ever. Even though Payne doesn't sit by us any more I keep his spirit around by shouting some of the classic Payne lines. "Snap it over his head! OOOOVER his head, OOOOOVER his head."Or, "Run like MOOOOSEEEE." Egghead never had any catch phrases but he delivered a line that I laugh at to this day. A band called "Better than Ezra" was playing at halftime and the Jet fans, ruthless as always, practically booed them off the stage. It was girl sounding pop music, inappropriate for a football game half time show. Anyway, no one else ever thinks this is funny, but EggHead shouted at the top of his lungs in a think Long Island accent, "You're not better than Ezra!" Gets me every time.
And now the moment we've all been waiting for....
It wasn't only Jet fans that I talked on Sunday, I talked to my Aunt and Uncle who both work at MetLife Stadium. My Aunt is in charge of the Pepsi gate security and my Uncle is an usher inside the stadium. They work both Jets and Giants games on a weekly basis.
The question was simply this.... Who has the more passionate fans, Jets or Giants?
Aunt Debbie ( master of the Gate )
And she's a Broncos fan. And now from My Uncle Dave (Charge Fan and nicest usher at the Meadowlands).
So there you have it Jet fans are more drunk and obnoxious than Giants fans and by default are more passionate about the team. I say this often, there is no such thing as a casual Jet fan. There are casual Giant fans. Some are just casual football fans.
Who's your favorite team?
"If they sh*t the bed this year I'll be more disappointed than I've ever been as a Jet's fan," said Ken O'Boyle Sr, father of yours truly and 20 year season ticket holder. "If your gonna talk the talk, you gotta walk the walk."
My Dad loves using stupid cliches, but he's right. We've been promised two going on three super bowls already. We've come too close twice and failed at the doorstep. This year Jet fans were confident.
"Jet fans are never confident!" screamed Bob Payne, long time Jet fan and season ticket holder from Long Island (Those are some hardcore Jets Fans out there). "The year after we lost to the Colts in the AFC Championship, I wasn't confident, but we did it again and lost to the stupid Steelers. This year was the year."
Payne had sat behind me with his buddy "EggHead" practically all my life going to Jet games. When the new stadium came along, every body's seats changed. Some people from the old section 140 didn't even buy season tickets at the new stadium because they're so damn expensive. The happy ending to the Payne and EggHead story is, even though we don't sit in the same section anymore, we tailgate together, which is something we didn't even do at the old stadium.
"You have to beat the Bills today," said Steve "Egghead" Taggart (I felt so weird asking him his real name). "I don't care how they do it. Pretty, sloppy, who gives a sh*t. You can't afford to lose anymore. And if we do win out, I still we get screwed out of a home playoff game.
Payne and EggHead didn't make the playoff road trips my family made the last two seasons. But EggHead is right. We pretty much have to be perfect the rest of the way if we're going to have a shot at the postseason and even still the Patriots will probably have a better record and win the division. And we had a sloppy win against the Bills.
Payne and EggHead are some of the best Jets fans ever. Even though Payne doesn't sit by us any more I keep his spirit around by shouting some of the classic Payne lines. "Snap it over his head! OOOOVER his head, OOOOOVER his head."Or, "Run like MOOOOSEEEE." Egghead never had any catch phrases but he delivered a line that I laugh at to this day. A band called "Better than Ezra" was playing at halftime and the Jet fans, ruthless as always, practically booed them off the stage. It was girl sounding pop music, inappropriate for a football game half time show. Anyway, no one else ever thinks this is funny, but EggHead shouted at the top of his lungs in a think Long Island accent, "You're not better than Ezra!" Gets me every time.
And now the moment we've all been waiting for....
It wasn't only Jet fans that I talked on Sunday, I talked to my Aunt and Uncle who both work at MetLife Stadium. My Aunt is in charge of the Pepsi gate security and my Uncle is an usher inside the stadium. They work both Jets and Giants games on a weekly basis.
The question was simply this.... Who has the more passionate fans, Jets or Giants?
Aunt Debbie ( master of the Gate )
That's tough to say. The Giants sell more tickets but they are not as rowdy as Jet fans when they get to the gates. Can we change the question to who has the more drunk fans, because Jet fans win that category. It's hard to tell whether Jet fans are just more drunk or they're passionate about the team. I guess I'd have to say the Jets.
And she's a Broncos fan. And now from My Uncle Dave (Charge Fan and nicest usher at the Meadowlands).
The stadium gets really loud for both teams, but more people show up to the Giants game so I'd have to say the Giants are louder except for the Jets chant. I'll put it to you this way. I wear earplugs for both teams. The Jets get into more fights though. I'm always breaking up fights at Jets games. I don't like it, but it says something about their passion for the team. That or they are just really hammered.
So there you have it Jet fans are more drunk and obnoxious than Giants fans and by default are more passionate about the team. I say this often, there is no such thing as a casual Jet fan. There are casual Giant fans. Some are just casual football fans.
Who's your favorite team?
I don't watch football that much
but if I had to pick I'm a Giants Fan.
That doesn't exist in Jets Nation. You're either die hard or you like some other team. You have to be strong willed to be a Jet fan. If your not passionate about the team all the disappoint will kill you.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Next up....
We have the Buffalo Bills for the second time in three weeks this Sunday at MetLife Stadium. Like Usual I will be in attendance. The Bills are looking like they're having their annual collapse right about this time. It's the same thing every year with these Bills. People get excited about the Bills early, then the epic collapse. They just got beat up by the Dolphins. I wouldn't be surprised if they finish out the season last in the AFC East, especially now that Miami is starting to come around.
However, the Jets may be collapsing as well. The three game losing streak early, followed by a two game losing streak that we're riding now, if we lose this one we might as well Just End The Season.
What if the Bills aren't in a state of total implosion, what if this is just a rough patch? It worries me slightly, but I'm confident this week. Just for this week. However, I was confident against the Broncos and look what happened.
The Jets are a good team, they're just not playing together, they're not motivated, SOMETHING IS OFF!
We can maybe afford to lose one game the rest of the year. Don't lose it to the Bills, we might need it against a better team.
I'll be bringing my tape recorder with me to the stadium on Sunday with a couple things in mind. I'm going to interview a couple of long time Jets fans. Season ticket holders that remember the days of the Polo Grounds and the Titans of New York. Finally a perspective of someone who has suffered longer than my brief 23 years on this planet.
But I also want to settle a long time dispute. Which fans are more hardcore, Jets or Giants fans? What a relief it is to play in a stadium not call Giants Stadium. Now that each team has an equal share in the building, I want to know who has the more passionate fans. And I will obtain this answer from the most objective people at MetLife Stadium on Sundays, da da da The Event Staff. These brave people deal with drunk idiots from both side on a weekly basis. Surely they are the only qualified to settle this dispute.
However, the Jets may be collapsing as well. The three game losing streak early, followed by a two game losing streak that we're riding now, if we lose this one we might as well Just End The Season.
What if the Bills aren't in a state of total implosion, what if this is just a rough patch? It worries me slightly, but I'm confident this week. Just for this week. However, I was confident against the Broncos and look what happened.
The Jets are a good team, they're just not playing together, they're not motivated, SOMETHING IS OFF!
We can maybe afford to lose one game the rest of the year. Don't lose it to the Bills, we might need it against a better team.
I'll be bringing my tape recorder with me to the stadium on Sunday with a couple things in mind. I'm going to interview a couple of long time Jets fans. Season ticket holders that remember the days of the Polo Grounds and the Titans of New York. Finally a perspective of someone who has suffered longer than my brief 23 years on this planet.
But I also want to settle a long time dispute. Which fans are more hardcore, Jets or Giants fans? What a relief it is to play in a stadium not call Giants Stadium. Now that each team has an equal share in the building, I want to know who has the more passionate fans. And I will obtain this answer from the most objective people at MetLife Stadium on Sundays, da da da The Event Staff. These brave people deal with drunk idiots from both side on a weekly basis. Surely they are the only qualified to settle this dispute.
I got Tebowed
Go figure, I do all this smack talking about Tim Tebow (God's gift to football) and he makes me look like a moron. He single-handedly drove down the field to win the game against the Jets.
But still, did Tebow make me look foolish, or was it the Jets? It was the Jets, it was always the Jets. This was a team that had the #1 Defense and #1 Rushing Attack in the NFL two years ago. Now, not only can't we play defense or run the ball, we can't block and our Quarterback, now in his third season, hasn't gotten better, but got worse.
I'm trying to remember if I felt this way last year or the year before. Last year we went 11-5 in the regular season. We have five losses now, mind you. It was fairly certain this time last year that the Jets were in good postion for at least a wild card playoff spot. I don't think I was this miserable last year. The year before we went 9-7 in the regular season. At one point two seasons ago, all playoff hopes were lost. Even our rookie head coach calculated wrong and officially declared us out of playoff contention. But he was wrong, and we eventually made it to the AFC Championship game. Was I as miserable as I am now? No. The fact is that we had a rookie quarterback and rookie head coach and there weren't big expectations.
This year I had my eyes on the prize. We have the same team, pretty much. Now, we're in a position with 6 games left in the season and we really can't afford to lose one.
Traditionally, 11-5 gets you into the playoff just about every time. 10-6 most of the time, but Jet fans know all too well that 10-6 is no guarantee. 9-7 is a long shot. It has happened. It happened two years ago. The Jets even won the division in 2002 with a 9-7 record. Dare I say the good old days.
I miss you Chad Pennington. I miss having a quarterback that I could trust with the football and completed the majority of his passes. Even if those passes never went farther than 15 yards.
But still, did Tebow make me look foolish, or was it the Jets? It was the Jets, it was always the Jets. This was a team that had the #1 Defense and #1 Rushing Attack in the NFL two years ago. Now, not only can't we play defense or run the ball, we can't block and our Quarterback, now in his third season, hasn't gotten better, but got worse.
I'm trying to remember if I felt this way last year or the year before. Last year we went 11-5 in the regular season. We have five losses now, mind you. It was fairly certain this time last year that the Jets were in good postion for at least a wild card playoff spot. I don't think I was this miserable last year. The year before we went 9-7 in the regular season. At one point two seasons ago, all playoff hopes were lost. Even our rookie head coach calculated wrong and officially declared us out of playoff contention. But he was wrong, and we eventually made it to the AFC Championship game. Was I as miserable as I am now? No. The fact is that we had a rookie quarterback and rookie head coach and there weren't big expectations.
This year I had my eyes on the prize. We have the same team, pretty much. Now, we're in a position with 6 games left in the season and we really can't afford to lose one.
Traditionally, 11-5 gets you into the playoff just about every time. 10-6 most of the time, but Jet fans know all too well that 10-6 is no guarantee. 9-7 is a long shot. It has happened. It happened two years ago. The Jets even won the division in 2002 with a 9-7 record. Dare I say the good old days.
I miss you Chad Pennington. I miss having a quarterback that I could trust with the football and completed the majority of his passes. Even if those passes never went farther than 15 yards.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Up Next Tim Tebow and the Broncos
I'd like to think the Jets can win this game. The problem is the Jets can't get pressure on the quarterback and Tebow likes to scramble. Fortunately, Tim Tebow is not a good quarterback and will probably never be a good quarterback in the NFL. He seems like a corn fed country boy and to be honest comes off dumb. To be a quarterback in the NFL, you need a head on your shoulders, not just use head and shoulders. Andrew Luck, the inevitable 1st overall pick in next years draft is a Stanford product. Peyton Manning is a genius and studies film like a lunatic. I swear if he wasn't a football player, he'd be building rockets.
Remember how the vote for the Prom Queen and class president was all just a popularity contest? Did you ever imagine that the position of starting quarterback would be based on anything other than talent and ability? Well it is in Denver. Tim Tebow, a very public Christian, almost too public, is starting for the Broncos. Mr Can't do no wrong off the field but can't do anything right on the field is starting against the Jets this Thursday.
I'd like to think the Jets can win this game.
Remember how the vote for the Prom Queen and class president was all just a popularity contest? Did you ever imagine that the position of starting quarterback would be based on anything other than talent and ability? Well it is in Denver. Tim Tebow, a very public Christian, almost too public, is starting for the Broncos. Mr Can't do no wrong off the field but can't do anything right on the field is starting against the Jets this Thursday.
I'd like to think the Jets can win this game.
How to be a Jet Fan
I was talking with some friends the other day (non-Jet fans), who brought up a good point. There is no such thing as a casual Jet Fan. Jet fans are die hard. The live and die with the Jets. Eat, sleep, breathe Jets football.
For those interested in becoming a Jet fan or perhaps you want to test how green your blood is, here's a few things you should know.
1) You must enjoy torture
2) Be prepared to be depressed
3) Joe Willie Namath is your hero
4) So is Curtis Martin
5) Burn your Favre Jersey
6) Spell Jets than say it loud three times right afrer
7) Hate Tom Brady
8) Hate Bill Belichick
9) Hate the Patriots
10) Hate the Dolphins
11) I still Love Chad Pennington
That last one is optional.
For those interested in becoming a Jet fan or perhaps you want to test how green your blood is, here's a few things you should know.
1) You must enjoy torture
2) Be prepared to be depressed
3) Joe Willie Namath is your hero
4) So is Curtis Martin
5) Burn your Favre Jersey
6) Spell Jets than say it loud three times right afrer
7) Hate Tom Brady
8) Hate Bill Belichick
9) Hate the Patriots
10) Hate the Dolphins
11) I still Love Chad Pennington
That last one is optional.
What Happened?
How can you go from such a dominating performance a week ago against Buffalo to what I saw Sunday Night. My head hurt watching that game. And I don't think it was all the beer. Maybe it was the beer a little bit but it was mostly watching Tom Brady having his way with the Jet Defense and the Jet Offense making the Patriot's D look like one of the best in the league.
We all know the Patriot's Defense isn't any good but they blew our O-Line of the ball every snap and beat up on Mark Sanchez. The Patriots aren't what they used to be. I really thought we had them going into Sunday, but I've learned my lesson. I'm no longer confident.
The Jets know how to beat the Patriots. We've split with them the last two seasons and ripped them in their house last year in the playoffs. You need to hit Tom Brady. He's the constant. He's what gives the Patriots a chance to win every time they step on the field. It's no secret that Tom Brady isn't Tom Brady, when he's under pressure. We had none. I hate Tom Brady.
We all know the Patriot's Defense isn't any good but they blew our O-Line of the ball every snap and beat up on Mark Sanchez. The Patriots aren't what they used to be. I really thought we had them going into Sunday, but I've learned my lesson. I'm no longer confident.
The Jets know how to beat the Patriots. We've split with them the last two seasons and ripped them in their house last year in the playoffs. You need to hit Tom Brady. He's the constant. He's what gives the Patriots a chance to win every time they step on the field. It's no secret that Tom Brady isn't Tom Brady, when he's under pressure. We had none. I hate Tom Brady.
How Will I Spend my Playoff Ticket Money
I was reading a blog on Jets Nation by a smart fellow named Phil Sullivan. Like most Jets fans Phil's disgusted over the most recent debacle. But Phil is a hopeful, but nonetheless true Jets fan when searching for one positive to take from the demoralizing loss to the Patriots.
He had been saving for two home playoff games. You know, the ones I was ranting over, the ones Rex Ryan practically promised us. The positive Phil took away from the beat down Sunday Night was that he now could spend that money on something else. He even spent time in the terrible traffic leaving the stadium thinking of things he could now splurge on.
Check out Phil's Blog
For me, I already bought the playoff tickets. My family buys them every season. If they don't make it, the Jets automatically put that money spent towards next years season tickets. We're gluttons for punishment. Even if by some miracle they bounce back and they are on the road for the playoffs, we'll wind up on the road with em'. Just like last year and the year before that. We set ourselves up for this torture.
He had been saving for two home playoff games. You know, the ones I was ranting over, the ones Rex Ryan practically promised us. The positive Phil took away from the beat down Sunday Night was that he now could spend that money on something else. He even spent time in the terrible traffic leaving the stadium thinking of things he could now splurge on.
Check out Phil's Blog
For me, I already bought the playoff tickets. My family buys them every season. If they don't make it, the Jets automatically put that money spent towards next years season tickets. We're gluttons for punishment. Even if by some miracle they bounce back and they are on the road for the playoffs, we'll wind up on the road with em'. Just like last year and the year before that. We set ourselves up for this torture.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Rex Ryan has a Big Mouth
Rex, before the Charger's game said that he turned down the Job to be San Diego's Head Coach. And if he was the coach out there with all their talent that he would already have a Super Bowl Ring. This crossed the line in a couple of ways. The media harped on the fact that it was a dis to Norv Turner, current San Diego Head Coach. I don't care about that. He implied that the Jets are not as talented as San Diego and if they were, he would have led us to the promise land already.
Rex says what's on his mind and a lot of the time he doesn't think before hand. We know he likes feet so we should have expected that he would put his own foot in his mouth every once in a while.
Rex says what's on his mind and a lot of the time he doesn't think before hand. We know he likes feet so we should have expected that he would put his own foot in his mouth every once in a while.
Some Priceless Rex Ryan Moments
He's entertaining. If he screws up every once in a while, I can live with it because I like this guy as my head coach.
Let's face it, anything is better than this...
Eric Mangini
Or this....
Herm Edwards
I'll take Rex over these two any day, even if they did have moderate success while they were here. They both work for ESPN as analysts now and perhaps that is for the best.
Plax's Wife is Hot
I didn't realize Plax's wife was so hot. They showed a shot of her on TV each time Plax went to give her the ball he just caught for a NY Jets Touchdown. Which happened three times. I was watching the highlights and instead of being happy to see Plax hit his stride, I couldn't stop thinking about how how his wife is. She was with him before he went to jail. I wonder if she was faithful. If Plax keeps it up she better be.
Burress Caught Three TD Passes against the Chargers.
Each of those balls went to his hot wife in the stands.
On another note, why is she allowed to keep those balls? Revis threw a ball into the crowd in the Monday Night Dolphin game but security came and took it away from the lucky fan. What's the big deal if a lucky fan gets to take home a game ball?
When I was young my dad caught a field goal from John Hall that sailed over the net used to stop balls from going into the crowd. Knowing the NFL and Meadowlands' stupid rules about this, he orchestrated this master plan to hide the ball from security. It involved other fans hiding it for us, passing it down, hiding it under the seat and so forth. Somehow the ball made it back to my dad and we took it home. Look at that. Jets fans working together to beat the system. I'm surprised no one decided to steal it for themselves. And who said Jets fans are all assholes?
New York Jets Riding a 2 Game Win Streak
We beat up on the Dolphins, but that was expected. Who can't beat up on the Dolphins? No one as of right now. If I were in charge of the Dolphins, I would just give up the season and put all of my faith in Luck. Andrew Luck from Stanford as the second coming of Dan Marino.
The Jets were able to beat the Chargers at home. And go figure, the Jets, a traditionally good road team, are undefeated at home and haven't won on the road. This is a quarterback/coach tandem that has more road playoff wins than any other in the history of the NFL.
The win against the Chargers was reminiscent of Jets wins in the last two season. Trailing going into the half, coming out with halftime adjustments and dominating the rest of the game. We're finally starting to see the defense coming around. Making plays when you have to is essential. That's what the Jets are starting to do. And finally we're seeing the potential of ex-con Plaxico Burress. Three touchdown catches, all of them in the red zone. A place where the Jets have always struggled, perhaps no more now that Sanchez and Plax are starting to click.
Click HERE to see highlights from Jets vs Chargers.
Looking at the highlights, you'll see class Jets Football. When there's that sense of urgency the Jets Defense steps up. The Revis interception, the Wilson pick to seal it and the stopping any chance of a Phillip Rivers' led Charger comeback.
Next up are the Buffalo Bills, who if the season ended today would win the AFC East. This is a team that has been so bad over the last couple of years I haven't been cheering against them like a do for the Patriots and Dolphins. I have to start changing my practices. This will be a tough match on the road. Buffalo is a tough place to play whether the Bills are good or bad. This year the Bills are much improved and should prove to be a real challenge on Sunday.
The Jets were able to beat the Chargers at home. And go figure, the Jets, a traditionally good road team, are undefeated at home and haven't won on the road. This is a quarterback/coach tandem that has more road playoff wins than any other in the history of the NFL.
The win against the Chargers was reminiscent of Jets wins in the last two season. Trailing going into the half, coming out with halftime adjustments and dominating the rest of the game. We're finally starting to see the defense coming around. Making plays when you have to is essential. That's what the Jets are starting to do. And finally we're seeing the potential of ex-con Plaxico Burress. Three touchdown catches, all of them in the red zone. A place where the Jets have always struggled, perhaps no more now that Sanchez and Plax are starting to click.
Click HERE to see highlights from Jets vs Chargers.
Looking at the highlights, you'll see class Jets Football. When there's that sense of urgency the Jets Defense steps up. The Revis interception, the Wilson pick to seal it and the stopping any chance of a Phillip Rivers' led Charger comeback.
Next up are the Buffalo Bills, who if the season ended today would win the AFC East. This is a team that has been so bad over the last couple of years I haven't been cheering against them like a do for the Patriots and Dolphins. I have to start changing my practices. This will be a tough match on the road. Buffalo is a tough place to play whether the Bills are good or bad. This year the Bills are much improved and should prove to be a real challenge on Sunday.
Mike Francesa is a Douche
Darrelle Revis Hangs up on Mike Francesa
Francesa is a Jets Hater. He makes it so obvious it is sickening. But he does it for a reason. He knows how sensitive Jets fans are and he knows how we react with we listen to him. I pull my hair out listening to this guy. But I can't tune away. He's the kind of guy you love to hate if you are a Jet fan. It makes me want to go out an beat up on the Buffalo Bills that much more.
In this clip Francesa is interviewing Darrelle Revis and insists that Revis fouled Brandon Marshall in the Jets Monday Night Football Victory over the Dolphins when he intercepted a Matt Moore pass. This is from the YES Network Simulcast of Francesa afternoon show on WFAN-AM. Francesa won't let the issue go. He said he was going to move on but he wasn't Revis was getting pissed and he knew it. This is what Francesa feeds on and I still stand by the fact that he is a douche.
However, from a public relations stand point the Jets screwed up. Having the PR guy come on the phone and tell Revis to hang up is against PR 101. Revis was handling himself fine. If Francesa want to have an argument let him, Revis was making good points. Coming on like that and telling him to hang up makes Revis and the Jets seem weak. The Jets are know for their big mouths. All I'm saying is let em talk.
All Alone on Revis Island
Darrelle Revis breaks up a pass intended for Vincent Jackson
He's not the biggest guy on the field. He's not the fastest, although he's pretty damn close. But he's the best defensive player in the NFL. A Rex Ryan defense needs a shut down corner like Darrelle Revis. He pretty much shuts down one entire side of the field. And what happens when a quarterback goes after a receiver on Revis Island? Reference above. Or, below.
Revis Interception returned for Touchdown
It's gotten to the point where quarterbacks, if they're smart, don't even throw in his direction. Last year Revis was all pro. Expected. How many interceptions did he have? None. Still all pro. How can you be an all pro cornerback and not even have any stats in the most importance defensive back category? When you strike fear into quarterbacks around the league. For this year, it's almost a given that Revis will receive all pro honors again, but can he lead his team to another AFC Championship? With a couple of interceptions already on the season, three in the last two Jets victories, I'd say Darrelle Revis has the Jets back on the right track.
Monday, October 10, 2011
This Isn't Fun Anymore
That last post was a little odd, I know. I cannot blog about this team with them playing like this. This isn't fun anymore. It's too painful.
Why do I let it affect me so much?
I'm out of my mind!
There's some positives?
Positives?@#$^%
They played a lot better than the last two weeks?
It's just not acceptable for a team
that played in the last two AFC
Championship games.
You're right.
I know I'm right!
Riding a 3 Game Losing Streak
These New York Jets are killing me.
Yes, the last three weeks were probably the hardest three game stretch that we'll have to deal with this season but,
The Jets have never been this sloppy. Yes since Rex Ryan took the job as head coach there's been an attitude of fun and smack talk and extreme confidence.
I am no longer confident.
There have been too many penalties, questionable play calls and defensive play that's left much to be desired.
Yes, the last three weeks were probably the hardest three game stretch that we'll have to deal with this season but, we ain't making it to a third straight AFC Championship playing like this!
We're through week 5 in the NFL, with a 2-3 record. We're comfortably (vomit) in third place in the AFC East and will take on the Miami Dolphins on Monday Night Football next.
If we lose this game...
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
5 Worst Jets Games Under Head Coach Rex Ryan
In the last post I mentioned how I drank the Rex Kool-Aid and bought into this we're the best team in the league business. But, since I'm depressed over the two game losing streak I will reflect on the 5 Jets' games since Rex Ryan took over as Head Coach. Side note: This is all based on how miserable I felt after the game.
5
New York Jets - 17 at Baltimore Ravens - 34 10/2/11
So fresh in my memory. It took every ounce of my being to be objective and not make this number 1. I never turn off a Jets game and I turned off this one. What did we see? An piss-poor offensive line and offensive performance in general. One offensive scoring drive for three points. I mean c’mon man.
4
Atlanta Falcons - 10 at New York Jets - 7 12/20/09
This was the game where Rex declared the Jets out of the playoffs. We all know what happened (Made the playoff lost in the AFC Championship Game). It was cold and miserable. No running attack, no pass attack, no nothing. I toyed with putting the shut out loss to Green Bay or the 9-6 loss to the ravens, but I clearly remember being one exceptionally miserable Jets fan that day.
3
New York Jets - 3 at New England Patriots - 45 12/6/10
I know what you're thinking, how is this number one? Because it was in the regular season. A smart Jets Fans already knows what games are 1 and 2. But, another reason why I have it at there is because we got our revenge in the playoffs. Again, yours truly was there first hand to witness it and honestly it was the greatest day of my life. But 45-3, I mean c’mon man.
2
AFC Championship- New York Jets- 17 at Indianapolis Colts- 30 1/24/10I hate you Peyton Manning. How do you figure it all out? The Jets had a lead at the half and could have possibly set the tone for the second half but went three and out and by that time, Peyton had already started his comeback. Reminiscent of the AFC Championship loss to the Broncos in 1998-99. Lukoil Staudium was so loud and we were on such a high beating San Diego the week before. That loss killed me. Worst day ever. You can’t win the AFC Championship if you only play one half of football.
1
AFC Championship- New York Jets- 19 at Pittsburgh Steelers- 24 1/23/11This was the worst day ever. Worse than the year before. We almost came back. Please refer to the last game I mentioned, “You can’t win the AFC Championship by playing one half of football.” This was the opposite. We didn’t show up in the first half and finally started to fight in the second. Too little too late. I’m still getting over this. I hate the Steelers, I hate the town, and I hate all their stupid championships. I was so happy they lost to the Packers in the Super Bowl. Well, I wasn’t that happy because I was still really bummed.
I Thought We Had Something Special
It is truly amazing how much the New York Football Jets affect my life. I’ve been completely bummed out for two weeks now. On top of that, my fantasy team, my one saving grace, posted huge numbers and still lost (Aaron Rogers I hate you). I can’t even listen to sports talk radio, watch ESPN, or pay any attention to what’s going with Jets or any sport. I’m depressed. It’s really sad I care this much. I feel like my girl friend cheated on me or something. Only my girlfriend is the Jets and cheating equals losing. It doesn’t make sense I know.
I bought into this whole thing. I drank the Rex Ryan Kool-Aid. I believed this team was better than it actually is. Now I’m starting to feel stupid (Starting to?). I mentioned in the first post. I was at the last two AFC Championship games and I watched them lose in person. I was at the infamous Doug Brien game in Pittsburgh where we were two chip-shot field goals away from going to the AFC Championship game. Yet I keep coming back for more.
The Ravens game Sunday night was horrible. I’ve come to the conclusion that our offensive line isn’t really that good. We stupidly got rid of Alan Faneca a few season ago, Damien Woody retired in the off season, and we haven’t done a thing about except pick up an undrafted rookie free agent. Ferguson is one of the best and so is Mangold but Mangold’s hurt and Ferguson can’t do it on his own. If we have any chance of beating New England on Sunday we need #74 at center.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
September Report Card
The month of September is coming to an end. Next time the New York Jets take the grid-iron, it will be October. So Jets fans, I figure this would be a good time to evaluate our Jets on their first month of the 2011 season. Keep in mind, I still have a really bad taste in my mouth over last Sunday.
Coaching: C-
Excluding the Jacksonville game (the Jags are a bunch of scrubs anyway), we have not had a decent game plan at all this season. Remember we would have lost the Cowboys game if it wasn't for Tony (Oh-No!) Romo. In addition to the game plan, I haven't seen effective 2nd half adjustments all year. For the Dallas game we started to move the ball in the second half, but I credit Sanchez most of all, same goes for the Jacksonville game. We started scoring in the second half be again, the Jags are scrubs. In Oakland, I was crossing my fingers hoping they had figured out a way to stop McFadden in the 2nd half, but nope the Defense play worse. This team must do a better job of planning for the opponent and adjusting at halftime.
Quarterback: B-
To start the season, Mark Sanchez has thrown for more yards through the first three weeks than he ever has in his short NFL career. But, he's got a few picks already and at times he makes you worry. Every once in a while he makes you feel like he's still a rookie. This is your third year Mark, you've been to two AFC Championship games and you've won more road playoff games than any other quarterback in the history of the NFL. You shouldn't be making rookie mistakes anymore.
Offense: C
They seem to be opening up the playbook a little more for young Sanchez, but still the play calling seems so predictable. Secondly, where the hell is the running game. It doesn't exist. I don't care how mow much better Mark Sanchez is or all the receiving threats we have, the New York Jets are a ground and pound team. The offensive line has to step it up to get these running backs going. They also need to do a better job of protecting the quarterback.
Defense: D
Many may think this is too low, but I am so disappointed in how the defense played against the Raiders. Letting them tie the game before the half. Somehow Oakland scored 21 unanswered points before Sanchez connected with Burress for the 2nd half TD. Just embarrassing how they couldn't come up with an answer for McFadden. Stopping the run is what the Jets do. 171 yards for one rusher is unacceptable.
Special Teams: C+
Again, I have a real bad taste in my mouth over last Sunday. This category could have had an A if it wasn't for the Cromartie fumble, that completely took the Jets out of the game against the Raiders. We've had a punt block for six against the Cowboys, we've have pretty good returns for Kickoff and Punts but that fumble is what cost us that game. We had a real shot at being 3-0 if that doesn't happen. DESPICABLE.
OVERALL: D
I have pretty bad grade math but I'm going with a D for disappointing and despicable. This can all change if the beat the Ravens Sunday. I am a very fickle fan.
Coaching: C-
Excluding the Jacksonville game (the Jags are a bunch of scrubs anyway), we have not had a decent game plan at all this season. Remember we would have lost the Cowboys game if it wasn't for Tony (Oh-No!) Romo. In addition to the game plan, I haven't seen effective 2nd half adjustments all year. For the Dallas game we started to move the ball in the second half, but I credit Sanchez most of all, same goes for the Jacksonville game. We started scoring in the second half be again, the Jags are scrubs. In Oakland, I was crossing my fingers hoping they had figured out a way to stop McFadden in the 2nd half, but nope the Defense play worse. This team must do a better job of planning for the opponent and adjusting at halftime.
Quarterback: B-
To start the season, Mark Sanchez has thrown for more yards through the first three weeks than he ever has in his short NFL career. But, he's got a few picks already and at times he makes you worry. Every once in a while he makes you feel like he's still a rookie. This is your third year Mark, you've been to two AFC Championship games and you've won more road playoff games than any other quarterback in the history of the NFL. You shouldn't be making rookie mistakes anymore.
Offense: C
They seem to be opening up the playbook a little more for young Sanchez, but still the play calling seems so predictable. Secondly, where the hell is the running game. It doesn't exist. I don't care how mow much better Mark Sanchez is or all the receiving threats we have, the New York Jets are a ground and pound team. The offensive line has to step it up to get these running backs going. They also need to do a better job of protecting the quarterback.
Defense: D
Many may think this is too low, but I am so disappointed in how the defense played against the Raiders. Letting them tie the game before the half. Somehow Oakland scored 21 unanswered points before Sanchez connected with Burress for the 2nd half TD. Just embarrassing how they couldn't come up with an answer for McFadden. Stopping the run is what the Jets do. 171 yards for one rusher is unacceptable.
Special Teams: C+
Again, I have a real bad taste in my mouth over last Sunday. This category could have had an A if it wasn't for the Cromartie fumble, that completely took the Jets out of the game against the Raiders. We've had a punt block for six against the Cowboys, we've have pretty good returns for Kickoff and Punts but that fumble is what cost us that game. We had a real shot at being 3-0 if that doesn't happen. DESPICABLE.
OVERALL: D
I have pretty bad grade math but I'm going with a D for disappointing and despicable. This can all change if the beat the Ravens Sunday. I am a very fickle fan.
Monday, September 26, 2011
From Hero to Zero
I'm talking about Antonio Cromartie. But, before I bash that guy, I must say it wasn't all his fault. Yesterday was sloppy all around. Offense, defense and special teams need to clean up their acts before these next two road games against Baltimore and New England. This is a tough three game stretch for the Jets. An optimistic Jets fan would like to return to the Meadowlands in three weeks 2-1 over the road trip and 4-1 on the season. That goal is much tougher now that the Jets lost the game they had the best shot at winning. Fortunately the next two games are on the East Coast and I partially blame the long trip for the loss.
But, who do I blame the most. Not Antonio just yet. I must give credit where credit is due. Darren McFadden is a beast. Running backs just don't run like that on a Rex Ryan defense. He ran all over us. He's big, he's strong and he's deceivingly quick. Now I know what all the hype was about when he was drafted. Also, Oakland's defense played great, specifically the front seven. Those are some big, mean mamma jammas. I also got to give credit it to Oakland's coaching staff. In the first half, the Jets were practically moving the ball at will. They were moving the pocket and Sanchez had all day to throw. Not in the second half. Anytime the Jets tried to do what they did successfully in the first half, Oakland made the pay. They sacked Sanchez six times in the second half, and shut down the running attack for pretty much the whole game.
Now my boy Cro, who ought to eat crow after yesterday's performance. "Hero to Zero," refers to last week where he had arguably his best game as a Jet. Yesterday, he was flagged four times for holding or pass interference. Yes, some of the calls were bullshit, but you have to realize when the Refs are throwing flags like that, you have to back off. A lot of the balls that were thrown his way weren't even close to the intended receiver, yet he still fouled. And what does that mean? Spot foul or 5 yard penalty and an automatic first down. Too many drives were extended because of these dumb penalties. Cromartie has been killing it in the kickoff return game but yesterday he got overzealous and fumbled which led to an immediate score and completely demoralized the team. You have to realize when Janikowski is kicking off, especially with these new rules, you're not returning the kick. He tried to be a hero like he was last week and wound up like a zero.
I am absolutely disgusted and I don't want to talk about it anymore.
But, who do I blame the most. Not Antonio just yet. I must give credit where credit is due. Darren McFadden is a beast. Running backs just don't run like that on a Rex Ryan defense. He ran all over us. He's big, he's strong and he's deceivingly quick. Now I know what all the hype was about when he was drafted. Also, Oakland's defense played great, specifically the front seven. Those are some big, mean mamma jammas. I also got to give credit it to Oakland's coaching staff. In the first half, the Jets were practically moving the ball at will. They were moving the pocket and Sanchez had all day to throw. Not in the second half. Anytime the Jets tried to do what they did successfully in the first half, Oakland made the pay. They sacked Sanchez six times in the second half, and shut down the running attack for pretty much the whole game.
Now my boy Cro, who ought to eat crow after yesterday's performance. "Hero to Zero," refers to last week where he had arguably his best game as a Jet. Yesterday, he was flagged four times for holding or pass interference. Yes, some of the calls were bullshit, but you have to realize when the Refs are throwing flags like that, you have to back off. A lot of the balls that were thrown his way weren't even close to the intended receiver, yet he still fouled. And what does that mean? Spot foul or 5 yard penalty and an automatic first down. Too many drives were extended because of these dumb penalties. Cromartie has been killing it in the kickoff return game but yesterday he got overzealous and fumbled which led to an immediate score and completely demoralized the team. You have to realize when Janikowski is kicking off, especially with these new rules, you're not returning the kick. He tried to be a hero like he was last week and wound up like a zero.
Even though you can't remember your kids names, remember your job on the field and do it.
I am absolutely disgusted and I don't want to talk about it anymore.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
If You Ain't First, You're Last
I don't think I'm the only Jets fan with this opinion. If the Jets don't win the AFC Championship this year, the season is a bust. They could (and probably will) make the playoffs, but it's not good enough.
Now, as a Jets fan, I've seen twice as much bad as good and I should be happy just having made it to the AFC Championship the last two years. It's like the Jets are dangling a carrot in front my face and I've finally realized it walking back to the Pittsburgh Westin Hotel from Heinz Field with my head down. I want that freaking carrot.
The last two season, the first two seasons with our franchise head coach and quarterback, we've gotten so close. Maybe it's because I was so close (physically, that is) having traveled with the Jets to see them defeat San Diego and New England (greatest day of my life) in the divisional round of the playoffs the last two seasons then lose to Indianapolis and Pittsburgh in the last two AFC Title games.
This year we have to win that game. First we have to make it there. It would help if we could dethrone New England and win the division. And the cool thing about that, if it happens, is the Jets would likely get a first round bye and home field advantage through out. Why that assumption? I don't care who you are or how well the Jets do, New England will for sure have one of the best records in the NFL at the end of the year. Top three at least. But, I don't need the division necessarily. I need to make the playoffs and win the AFC Championship.
Do I need to win the Super Bowl? I need to take a step forward and that means just making it there. If we do I'll have tremendous confidence, but all I need is that AFC Championship. Did you know the New York Jets are the only team in the NFL (excluding expansion teams) that hasn't won a conference championship since the AFL-NFL merger? That's a fact. Since the merger we made it there once with Kenny O'Brien, once with Vinny Testaverde, and now twice with Marky Mark Sanchez.
You all probably think I'm crazy, speaking like I'm actually a part of this team. I need this, we got to do it. Let me assure you... I am definitely crazy. I leave you with some words from the great Sam Cooke.
"It's been a long, a long time coming
But I knooooooow a change gonna come."
All in all, it has been way too long, and I truly believe Jets fans have had enough. We've been too close the last two year that anything short of the Lamar Hunt Trophy will be a disappointment, not just for me but for all Jets fans. So, maybe I should change the title to if you ain't first or second (in the NFL), you might as well be dead last.
Now, as a Jets fan, I've seen twice as much bad as good and I should be happy just having made it to the AFC Championship the last two years. It's like the Jets are dangling a carrot in front my face and I've finally realized it walking back to the Pittsburgh Westin Hotel from Heinz Field with my head down. I want that freaking carrot.
The last two season, the first two seasons with our franchise head coach and quarterback, we've gotten so close. Maybe it's because I was so close (physically, that is) having traveled with the Jets to see them defeat San Diego and New England (greatest day of my life) in the divisional round of the playoffs the last two seasons then lose to Indianapolis and Pittsburgh in the last two AFC Title games.
This year we have to win that game. First we have to make it there. It would help if we could dethrone New England and win the division. And the cool thing about that, if it happens, is the Jets would likely get a first round bye and home field advantage through out. Why that assumption? I don't care who you are or how well the Jets do, New England will for sure have one of the best records in the NFL at the end of the year. Top three at least. But, I don't need the division necessarily. I need to make the playoffs and win the AFC Championship.
Do I need to win the Super Bowl? I need to take a step forward and that means just making it there. If we do I'll have tremendous confidence, but all I need is that AFC Championship. Did you know the New York Jets are the only team in the NFL (excluding expansion teams) that hasn't won a conference championship since the AFL-NFL merger? That's a fact. Since the merger we made it there once with Kenny O'Brien, once with Vinny Testaverde, and now twice with Marky Mark Sanchez.
You all probably think I'm crazy, speaking like I'm actually a part of this team. I need this, we got to do it. Let me assure you... I am definitely crazy. I leave you with some words from the great Sam Cooke.
"It's been a long, a long time coming
But I knooooooow a change gonna come."
All in all, it has been way too long, and I truly believe Jets fans have had enough. We've been too close the last two year that anything short of the Lamar Hunt Trophy will be a disappointment, not just for me but for all Jets fans. So, maybe I should change the title to if you ain't first or second (in the NFL), you might as well be dead last.
Monday, September 19, 2011
The Jets and Jags
The Jets have a reputation amongst the league and in particular Jets fans to play to the level of their competition. Now this can be a good thing when the Jets play a good team because they seem to step up their game. But, when the Jets play a team that they are clearly better than, like the Jacksonville Jaguars, they've had the tendency the play down to the level of competition. Fortunately that was not the case yesterday. The Jets had a convincing 32-3 victory over the Jags.
Even with the victory, I still have some concerns (like any true Jets Fan). First however, I'd like to discuss the positives. DEFENSE was excellent. Gang Green made Luke McCown look like a high school quarterback. I actually think a high school quarterback could have posted a better passer rating. McCown was 6-19 for 59 yards and threw four interceptions with a dismal 1.8 passer rating and was eventually benched for rookie Blaine Gabbert who didn't do better. Why did you ditch David Gerard? Money! Your idiots. Maurice Jones-Drew was the only sign of life for the Jags offense and still was held to 88 yards which is a good sign for the Jets defense because he usually runs all over the Jets. Yet, the Jags couldn't get anywhere near the endzone. Antonio Cromartie had arguably his best day as a Jet with two of the four Jets picks. One was originally and Pick-Six but was reviewed and overturned (The Jets the quickly scored). Crow also was a monster returning kicks averaging 42 yards per return. Eric Smith had an interception but was in position to have two more if he could only catch the ball. That's why they say if D-Backs had hands they play wide receiver. Even Josh Magua (WHO?) had an interception. Last thing on the defense, I have to formally welcome New Jersey native and Jets first round draft choice Muhammad Wilkerson who had a huge sack which resulted in a safety in the first quarter. Way to go Mo!
Offensively, the line did a much better job of protecting Sanchez, however the Jags don't have a premier pass rush and Sanchez got hit in the second half and was slow to get up. We need to protect this kid. We he has the time he usually makes good decisions. But Mark Sanchez did throw two interceptions. He has a problem of telegraphing his passes. Everybody and their mother knows where he's going to the ball. Since his rookie year he's gotten progressively better, but by now this should not be a problem any more. Overall offensive play was inconsistent. It was nice to see an opening drive touchdown which hasn't happened in a while. Rex Ryan and the Jets purposefully elected to receive after winning the opening coin toss, something they never do. During the post-game interviews we learned they did that to help the confidence of the offense. It was a methodical drive and I was happy to see it in the endzone where my seats are. We need to get out running attack going. Shonn Greene has been disappointing but I do like what I see from Tomlinson as a receiver out of the back field.
It was a great win for the Jets who open up the season 2-0 and now head to the west coast to take on the the improved Oakland Raiders. How much improved? Not that much, but enough for the Jets not to take them lightly. The Jets are historically a good road team but they sometimes struggle when traveling to places on the other side of the country. They are a team with a routine and I think the time change messes with that. Not to mention this is the start of an even longer road trip for the Jets. They won't be back in Jersey for three weeks with Oakland the Sunday, Baltimore next then and then New England. So not only is it a long road trip but it is a tough one, especially with the Baltimore and New England. I just hope the Jets don't look past the Raiders. You want to be 3-0 heading in to the Ravens games.
Even with the victory, I still have some concerns (like any true Jets Fan). First however, I'd like to discuss the positives. DEFENSE was excellent. Gang Green made Luke McCown look like a high school quarterback. I actually think a high school quarterback could have posted a better passer rating. McCown was 6-19 for 59 yards and threw four interceptions with a dismal 1.8 passer rating and was eventually benched for rookie Blaine Gabbert who didn't do better. Why did you ditch David Gerard? Money! Your idiots. Maurice Jones-Drew was the only sign of life for the Jags offense and still was held to 88 yards which is a good sign for the Jets defense because he usually runs all over the Jets. Yet, the Jags couldn't get anywhere near the endzone. Antonio Cromartie had arguably his best day as a Jet with two of the four Jets picks. One was originally and Pick-Six but was reviewed and overturned (The Jets the quickly scored). Crow also was a monster returning kicks averaging 42 yards per return. Eric Smith had an interception but was in position to have two more if he could only catch the ball. That's why they say if D-Backs had hands they play wide receiver. Even Josh Magua (WHO?) had an interception. Last thing on the defense, I have to formally welcome New Jersey native and Jets first round draft choice Muhammad Wilkerson who had a huge sack which resulted in a safety in the first quarter. Way to go Mo!
Offensively, the line did a much better job of protecting Sanchez, however the Jags don't have a premier pass rush and Sanchez got hit in the second half and was slow to get up. We need to protect this kid. We he has the time he usually makes good decisions. But Mark Sanchez did throw two interceptions. He has a problem of telegraphing his passes. Everybody and their mother knows where he's going to the ball. Since his rookie year he's gotten progressively better, but by now this should not be a problem any more. Overall offensive play was inconsistent. It was nice to see an opening drive touchdown which hasn't happened in a while. Rex Ryan and the Jets purposefully elected to receive after winning the opening coin toss, something they never do. During the post-game interviews we learned they did that to help the confidence of the offense. It was a methodical drive and I was happy to see it in the endzone where my seats are. We need to get out running attack going. Shonn Greene has been disappointing but I do like what I see from Tomlinson as a receiver out of the back field.
It was a great win for the Jets who open up the season 2-0 and now head to the west coast to take on the the improved Oakland Raiders. How much improved? Not that much, but enough for the Jets not to take them lightly. The Jets are historically a good road team but they sometimes struggle when traveling to places on the other side of the country. They are a team with a routine and I think the time change messes with that. Not to mention this is the start of an even longer road trip for the Jets. They won't be back in Jersey for three weeks with Oakland the Sunday, Baltimore next then and then New England. So not only is it a long road trip but it is a tough one, especially with the Baltimore and New England. I just hope the Jets don't look past the Raiders. You want to be 3-0 heading in to the Ravens games.
Monday, September 12, 2011
How to Blog Like a Jet
Greetings Jets fans and bandwagon hoppers! Welcome to Blog Like a Jet, your one stop shop for the unorganized ramblings of one truly committed (I should be committed), die hard New York Jets fan.
For those who saw HBO’s “Hard Knocks: Training camp with the New York Jets” last season, you may be familiar with the phrase, “Play like a Jet.” For those unfamiliar, this is the mantra Head Coach Rex Ryan instilled in his players and assistant coaches. If you ask Rex what it means to play like a Jet he’ll tell you a bunch of stuff about tough, physical football, brash, hard-nosed and hard work and dedication, and the big hit. But, how is that any different from what any other tough and physical team preaches. How about, Rex’s old team, the Baltimore Ravens. They’re very similar to the Jets style of play, do they say play like a Raven? They probably say, “Quoth the Raven, nevermore.” Some Jets players, like wide receiver Santonio Holmes take the mantra literally and extend their arms and pretend to fly after a big play.
The point is, I don’t get it but I like it. I wear a wristband that says it, “Play Like a Jet.” I’ve bought in. I’ve drank the Rex Ryan cool-aid. But, after last night’s performance on Sunday Night Football against the Cowboys added to the definition of “Play Like a Jet.”
To play like a Jet you must give all your fans heart attacks before finally coming through and being the first team in the history of the NFL to beat the Dallas Cowboys when they’ve led by 14 points in the forth quarter. I know what Rex says and what everybody says, “Good teams find a way win games.” That’s great but why do you have to take the scenic route we’re I’m screaming at the top of my lungs and pulling my hair out for the first three quarters. I continued to scream at the top of my lungs in the fourth quarter but that I didn’t mind. Those were cries of joy.
In this blog dedicated to Gang Green, I promise to blog like a Jet or a least a true jet fan because I am a true Jet Fan. A true jet fan who gloms off of his Father’s season tickets and gets too drunk to even remember the game the next day. A true Jet Fan who is perennially pessimistic but would never give up on the boys in green. You get close at times but you never give up. That’s a true Jet Fan.
I’ll leave you with a joke I heard Comedian Artie Lange tell at Lincoln Center a few years back. This true encapsulates what it is to be a real die hard Jet Fan. Even though Artie’s a Giants fan, he makes a lot of sense.
“My uncle was a big Jets fan and he sat me down to talk football. He said, ‘when I was really young I was the biggest Jet Fan. They were my life. But, then I started liking girls. Eventually when I got older I went back to being a really big Jets fan. You know what I realized? No matter what happens, the Jets will always F*ck you.”
Quick thoughts on last night. Defense started slow but came around in the end. We need to improve the push on the offensive line. We couldn’t get anything going on the ground yesterday. Also the O-Line needs to do a better job of protecting Mark Sanchez. He needs more time to throw. And Lastly, Mark is great in the 2-minute offense, we should run the no huddle more often. Click to see Highlights from Jets Vs. Cowboys check out Mark Sanchez's 6th career fourth quarter comeback of his short career on the NFL Website.
Here is the pre-game ceremony recognizing the the 10th anniversary of September 11, 2001. Very touching stuff.
We should have an easier time with Jacksonville next week.
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