Even though the Jets ended their season early, there are still games to be played outside of Jetland.  This weekend shapes up to be a barn-burner with NFC and AFC matchups that could determine who makes it all the way to Tampa (remember, the Giants were a six seed last year).  Here’s what to watch for in each game tomorrow and Sunday.

Minn vs. Phi:  Who says you can’t make the playoffs with a tie in the W-L column?  The Eagles host the Vikings this weekend in what could be a game of smash-mouth football with RB’s Brian Westbrook and Adrian Peterson facing off with each other.  These two are the X-factors for their respective teams. Here’s what to keep an eye on:

PHI: 

WR Desean Jackson:  This guy could be the next Devin Hester over the next few years.  Jackson has been the Achilles heal for opposing special teams and secondaries for most of the year.  He’s amassed 62 receptions 912 yards and 2 touchdowns as a rookie this year.  If it weren’t for Matt Ryan, he’d be right up there in the offensive ROY category, unless Titans RB Chris Johnson had something to say about it.  Look for him to be McNabb’s go-to-guy if (most definitely) WR Ronnie Brown draws double coverages this weekend.  But Brown has trailed off towards the end of the season so it could be the other way around.  Here’s a suggestion, even though it will fall on deaf ears:  use Jackson out of the wildcat.  He’d be perfect with his blazing speed.  It’s almost a given that S Darren Sharper will provide deep coverage for DB’s Antoine Winfield and Cedric Griffin if Jackson gets into open space. 

RB Brian Westbrook: Need I say more?  Of course.  Westbrook will have a tough task against the Vikings run defense ranked first in the league.  Anchored by DE Jared Allen, look for the Eagles to look to the air early and often if Westbrook can’t find holes behind LT Tra Thomas and RT Jon Runyan.  The last time the Eagles faced Minnesota Westbrook only gained 46 yards on 21 carries (2007).  But let’s not forget:  Westbrook is a huge asset in the passing game.  He has 54 catches 402 yards 5 touchdowns this year. 

RB Correll Buckhalter:  A nice complement to Westbrook who shows cat-like quickness and averages over 4.9 YPC.  Westbrook has been banged up as of late so watch for Buckhalter if his teammate can’t go. 

MINN:

DE Jared Allen:  The former Chiefs’ defensive end came into Minnesota on a mission and so far he’s done nothing but tear up opposing left tackles with 14.5 sacks this season.  Thomas will have his hands full with Allen.  He also has three forced fumbles this season.  Look for Thomas to get help from LG Todd Herremans in passing situations. 

RB Adrian Peterson:  The 2008 rushing champ, nursing a leg injury for a few weeks now, is key in setting up QB Tavaris Jackson in the play action and overall passing game.  If he goes, so does the Vikings offense.  The Eagles are no slouch in the run defense either.  They’re ranked fourth so watch that matchup against Peterson as the game progresses this Sunday.  He’ll need the support of his offensive line to get to the second level and beyond against Philadelphia.   

WR Bobby Wade:  Bernard Berrian’s counterpart Wade is the speedy threat that every NFL offense needs.  He’s averaged over 12.2 YPC this year with two touchdowns and has six catches of 20 yards or more in 2008, two of them going for 41 and 59 yards.  He was a factor in the Vikings 20-19 victory over the Giants last weekend (4 catches 98 yards) and the Giants are ranked eighth against the pass, the Eagles are ranked third.  But then again the Giants were playing safe, not a win last Sunday.  Wade and Co. will have their work cut out for them against ball-hawks S Brian Dawkins and DB Sheldon Brown.

Prediction:  Eagles 27 Vikings 24

ATL vs. ARI:  Here’s a game that should be interesting.  Two teams that were scraps last year are the toast of their respective divisions this year even though the Cards play in the NFC West.  The Falcons, a year removed from the Michael Vick debacle are in the postseason with a rookie QB in Matt Ryan at the helm.  This game is shaping up to be a shootout in the desert considering WR Larry Fitzgerald will have Anquan Boldin at his side this weekend which will open up passing lanes for him and other receivers.

ATL:

RB Michael Turner:  The second leading rusher in the league (1699), Turner will be that game changer at one point or another against Arizona’s 16th ranked rushing defense.  He has eight games with 100+ rushing yards and two with 200+ rushing yards.  He also has 17 rushing touchdowns.  If DE Travis LaBoy and the Cards D-line let him run all over them this weekend, the Falcons will be ordering their Divisional Playoff tickets in the third quarter of the WC game. 

DE John Abraham:  Is hurt but according to numerous sources, he should be able to play this weekend.  The Cards have given up 28 sacks this year, quite low considering Warner had a reputation of holding the ball too long in the pocket.  Abraham has 16.5 sacks this season.  He’s been plagued by injuries and has still performed above and beyond the call of duty to shore up the once porous Falcons’ run and pass defense.  He and DE Jamaal Anderson (if he’s not hurt) will have a field day if Warner decides to revert back to his old days of waiting a bit too long to find the right read.

WR Michael Jenkins:  Arguably Ryan’s go-to-guy most of the season.  He caught Ryan’s first pass and TD of his career in Week 1.  Jenkins is the quintessential possession receiver with enough zip in his step to get behind safeties and create mismatches in single coverages.  His 50 catches this season is a career high for the former Buckeye.  If Turner decides to have an off day in the backfield, look for Turner and WR Roddy White to see a lot of balls thrown their way. 

ARI:

WR Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin:  Probably the best one-two tandem in the NFL might be the best pair in the last decade.  Either of these receivers on another team is a number one.  Boldin and Fitzgerald have combined for 185 catches, 2, 469 yards and 23 touchdowns.  The one thing Warner has on his side is that if he can buy time for Fitz and Boldy to get open, Falcon defenders will have a lot on their hands.  Oh by the way:  WR Steve Breaston is no slouch either.  He has 77 catches for 1, 077 yards and three touchdowns.  So in short, the Cardinals have the best triple-threat at WR this weekend.

DB Dominque Rodgers-Cromartie:  Former first round draft pick gets his first taste of the postseason this weekend.  And he’ll have the pleasure of dealing with Jenkins and White.  This rookie has 42 tackles and four interceptions this season, returning one for 99 yards.  This guy is also dangerous on special teams. 

Prediction:  Falcons 24 Cardinals 17

IND vs SD:  At the beginning of the season, would you have said that the Colts would lose the division to the Titans?  Probably not.  And would you say that the Chargers would finish the season 8-8 yet still win the division.  I’m going to go with no. 

IND:

RB Dominic Rhodes:  He only had 536 yards rushing this season, but that was mainly due to the two-back tandem of Rhodes and Joseph Addai.  He also has six touchdowns, three of which came in the last three weeks of the season. 

WR Anthony Gonzalez:  Has taken over on the down year of WR Marvin Harrison.  Gonzalez took his success at Ohio State and applied it in Indianapolis with great route running and soft hands.  If it weren’t for Reggie Wayne being….well….Reggie Wayne….Gonzalez would’ve churned out 1,000 receiving yards easily. 

Colts Secondary:  Why the whole unite?  Because their ranked sixth in passing defense, something the Chargers will need if Tomlinson decides to have a postseason like last season.  San Diego on the other hand is ranked 31st against the pass so look for recently named NFL MVP Peyton Manning to have a field day if given time to read and react.  The defense also has 15 interceptions on their stat sheet.

SD:

QB Philip Rivers:  Looking to show the world why he should be on the Pro Bowl roster, Rivers has a mean streak in him.  Leading the league in the NFL in touchdown passes (34) and 4,008 yards, Rivers deserves that spot.  Oh, and how funny is it that he has more yards, more TD’s, less INT’s and a better QB rating than Peyton Manning, yet Manning got his third MVP trophy today?  Just my two cents.

WR Vincent Jackson:  Had, arguably, the most quiet-efficient year of any WR in the league.  A fantasy-league sleeper, if you want to call him that.  TE Antonio Gates disappeared toward the end of the season and Jackson stepped up (59 catches, 1,098 YDS 7 TD).  If LT plays and has a decent game, look for Rivers to find Jackson off of play action passes and quick pass situations. 

DB Antonio Cromartie:  Peyton Manning knows who this is.  He picked him off three times last year.  This guy could prove to be a thorn in the Colts side if Manning and the passing game gets glitchy.  A rather off year for Cromartie (64 tackles 2 INT) but the post season is a new season.  He’ll be one-on-one with Wayne and will probably give help to LB’s and safeties on TE Dallas Clark.  So watch for him in key third down situations, whether it be an INT, batted pass or key tackle.

Prediction: Colts 28 Chargers 17

BAL vs MIA:  This is a game that should be TIVOed.  Why?  Because, at least to me, this is the first real test for Baltimore since Week 11 versus the Giants.  Pennington and the Fins are riding high off their first division win since 2000.  Dolphins QB in 2000: Jay Fiedler.  These two franchises finished last in their respective divisions in 2007.  Oh the joy of parody in the NFL.

BAL:

WR Derrick Mason:  If this guy doesn’t have the year he had, the Ravens aren’t in the playoffs.  Mason (80 catches 1, 037 YDS 5 TD) is that security blanket that QB Joe Flacco needs to deal with the uncharted territory he’s venturing into this weekend:  the playoffs.  His fellow receiver Mark Clayton should find some holes Sunday too. 

Ravens Defense:  Ed Reed, Terrell Suggs, Ray Lewis, Haloti Ngata, Bart Scott and Chris McAlister.  Enough said.

Le’ron McClain:  He’s been the change-up back to Willis McGahee this season.  Much like the way Ron Dayne was to Tiki Barber in 2000, before he started to stink up the NFL.  Look for him to be in the lineup on offensive goal line situations.

MIA:

WR Ted Ginn Jr.: He made it into this blog last week and look what he did:  clutch TD against the Jets.  This guy can run with just about anyone in the league.  I won’t be surprised if he catches another TD this weekend.  Many questioned the drafting of Ginn Jr. with the ninth pick in last years draft when many felt Brady Quinn should’ve been the selection.  Well, I’ll bet you a nickel that whoever second guessed the Fins are singing a different tune now.  Myself included.  I felt Ginn Jr. was going to be a great player, but at the time I thought Miami needed a QB.

TE Anthony Fasano:  This guy has been lights out for most of the season.   A clutch TD and a third down catch last week clearly shows this guy is ready for anything.  What was Dallas thinking in letting him go to a division rival?  Here’s a prediction:  Fasano will have at least four catches this weekend.  I know, not very bold, but it’s still a prediction.

DE Phillip Merling:  Who knew he was so fast?  Merling intercepted Favre last week for a TD.  He’s going up against an above average offensive line this Sunday.  He’ll have his hands full with RT Willie Anderson. 

Prediction:  Dolphins 17 Ravens 14

Newsday’s Arthur Staple reported today that a Jets player felt resentment toward Brett Favre for his distance in the locker room and his “standoffish attitude that undermined team unity.” 

“There was a lot of resentment about him,” he told Newsday yesterday.  It said that the player was a veteran that made these comments.  To quote Staple, he wrote, “He said Favre spent most of this down time at the practice facility in an office specifically designated for him near the equipment room, not with teammates in the locker room.

This is somewhat valid.  Obviously Favre won’t be as personable when we’re (the media) are around.  But even when we were going about our business, the other players would laugh, joke and sing and jab at each other (Revis is famous for calling out Ellis for not showering on fridays), but that wasn’t the case for Favre.  In my own opinion, I’ve only seen him speak to the PR people, Laveranues Coles, and Jerricho Cotchery when THE MEDIA is around.  Occasionally I saw him towel whip somebody or smack someone on the behind, then go to his locker and head in the back where it’s off limits to the media. 

“He never socialized with us, never went to dinner with anyone,” the player said.  On Monday, S Kerry Rhodes said: “If he’s dedicated and he wants to come back and do this, and do it the right way…and be here when we’re here in training camp and the minicamps and working out with us…then I’m fine with that.  But dont’ come back if it’s going to be halfhearted or he doesn’t want to put the time in with us.”

Was this a way of saying to Favre that the players won’t tolerate the “me” attitude?  A bold statement by a bold man.  Rhodes has always asserted himself when it comes to touchy situations.  He was the only one that would sort of address the Shaun Ellis incident besides Shaun Ellis a few weeks ago.

By my own observation, Favre would always be the one to be very quiet in the locker room.  Yes the media was around but that shouldn’t stop him from interacting with his players.  He seemed very entrenched in his corner of the room for the 45 minute open locker room session.   

The next few weeks will be very intriguing, considering Gang Green will find a head coaching replacement in the coming weeks.  And, a Favre “decision” will be looming well into the offseason.

Stay Tuned.

Staple and Jets beat writer Erik Boland broke this story.

It’s 1:42 p.m. at Giants Stadium.  This is it Jets fans.  Did you see your team in this position four weeks ago?  I’m banking on no.  Now Gang Green needs help in order to enter the 12-team tourney, AKA the NFL Playoffs and try to salvage a season that appeared to be history turning, to now, the same tune of the same old Jets.  The man Woody and the Jets kicked to the curb may kick them outside the postseason circle this afternoon.  Here’s what to look for in this game.

MIA: 

Ronnie Brown:  He’s been lights out most of the season, amassing 10 touchdowns this season.  He also has one passing touchdown.  Look for his counterpart Ricky Williams to get in on the action as well.  He’s always been a thorn in the Jets side for most of his career, even when he was struggling.  These two have combined for 1,468 yards and 14 touchdowns this season and 57 receptions and 455 receiving yards.  Pennington is known for the dink and dunk routine and these two running backs have been either dink, dunk or both.  If the Jets somehow shutdown WR Ted Ginn Jr. this afternoon, these two should see more than just rushing touches.

Anthony Fasano:  Guess who leads the Dolphins in TD catches?  Not Ginn Jr. Not Davone Bess.  Not even recently injured standout WR Greg Camarillo.  Fasano has six touchdowns on the year, one coming last week against the Kansas City Chiefs.  He’s been the epitome of pass catching tight ends and has opened up many holes for the two mentioned above.  Gang Green has been known to struggle against decent TE’s (see Zach Miller in Oakland) so look for him to find some open seams when Ginn Jr. and Bess draw double coverage.  Fasano recorded only three catches 47 yards last week, but two of them went for scores and one of them was late to put the Fins up.  Pennington threw for 235 yards against the Chiefs 30th ranked passing defense.  Gang Green’s ranked 29th.  So if the Jets run defense decides to show up this weekend, look for Chad and Co. to look to the air to move down the field. 

Joey Porter:  Almost forgot about this guy.  The Jets O-line hasn’t been able to stop anyone recently.  How far they go if they make the playoffs will be showcased to day in their attempts to contain Miami’s sack machine (17.5).  Favre couldn’t get away from Rocky Bernard last week so it’ll be interesting to see if they stack the blind side this afternoon to buy Favre some time.  Before the season started, Porter wasn’t as popular in sunny Florida but went on a tear after Week 1, recording 19 tackles this first five games and six sacks in that span.  If the Jets have any chance at scoring points and getting the run game going today, stopping Porter is of highest priority.

NYJ:

Thomas Jones:  The passing game has been non-existent the past four weeks, so look for Mangini, hopefully for Jets fans, to go back to the smash mouth football that made them successful earlier in the season.  Jones has averaged 72 yards over the past two weeks.  He and Leon Wasghington need to take advantage of the opportunity in the screen passing game if LB Channing Crowder can’t go today. 

Leon Washington:  Four touches the last two weeks.  What is Schottenheimer thinking?  This guys is a game changer and a spark plug for the Gang Green offenses.  He has three TD’s over 50 yards this season.  And yet he has barely seen the ball in two crucial matchups over the past two weeks.  To win today, Washington has to touch the ball.  Favre needs to go back to game manager and Mangini needs to catch Miami off guard with the quick pass plays and delayed runs.  

TE Dustin Keller:  Four catches 37 yards over the past two games.  Not acceptable.  He was the equalizer.  He was that change in routine when he looked scary good against New England which now seems like eons ago.  In those fourth and short situations last week, the Jets elected to go deep.  Yes time was a factor but they needed the first down.  Keller could’ve been of some use in that instance.  If Coles has butterfingers today and Cotchery is contained, look for Favre to look to Keller for a bail out.

All in all, this game could go either way regardless of the Jets performance over the last two weeks.  However, with Chad and the Fins rolling, Gang Green has a lot of work to do. 

I already picked Miami to win this game, but here’s a mini prediction.  Both teams will use the wildcat at least once.

The Jets have waived RB Marcus Mason. The announcement was made by Jets General Manager Mike Tannenbaum.

Mason (5-9/215/Youngstown State/Potomac, MD), who signed with the Jets off of the Baltimore Ravens practice squad Oct. 29., originally signed in the NFL with the Washington Redskins as an undrafted free agent on April 30, 2007.  He was released on Sept. 11, 2007 and signed to the Washington practice squad on Sept. 12.  Mason played all five 2008 preseason games for Washington and led the NFL with 317 yards rushing (4.8 yards per carry).  He also caught eight passes for 56 yards (7.0 avg.) and one touchdown before he was released by the Redskins on Aug. 30.  He signed with the Ravens practice squad on Sept. 3.

Odds are he’ll pass through waivers and they’ll pick him up again.

If last week’s loss to the Broncos wasn’t a wakeup call for Gang Green then they have serious issues. Other than the running game, every component that is the Jets looked at the Meadowlands last week. There’s plenty of blame to go around for last weeks loss ranging from poor offensive game plan (not getting LC the ball and abandoning the run too early) and shoddy run defensive play.

“I don’t know, call it what you want,” NT Kris Jenkins said. “I just know how I play the game and I am going to approach the game how I play. I didn’t do the best that I could. If I would have done better would it have changed the outcome, who knows, but it’s not for me to say. I just know when I looked at the film afterwards there were some things I could have done better. I am going to make sure that I definitely take responsibility for that.”

“My position, it’s one where I have to be the point of attack for this defense. If I don’t do a good job then who is to say that it probably didn’t impact the whole (defenses) performance. I am going to take a lot of that on my shoulders and I am going to be a man about it.”

Hopefully for their sake, they’ll have more success against the San Francisco 49ers on the west coast on Sunday. This game is far from a gimme. San Francisco has been playing hard, much harder than their record (4-8) shows. Stopping RB Frank Gore should be Jenkins and the defense’s point of emphasis this Sunday considering, even though Hillis was electric against them last week, is an upgrade in overall ability compared to Hillis. Here’s a few things to keep an eye on when Jets v. 49ers kicks off this weekend.

NYJ

Brett Favre and the WR’s: The 49ers have given up 347.9 yards a game (23rd) and are ranked 27th in total points. Look for WR Laveranues Coles to have the game he should’ve had last game. However, credit must go to the Broncos for playing very physical with Jets’ receivers, almost like the way the Jets performed in passing situations against the Titans. San Francisco’s top cornerbacks in Nate Clements (thumb) and speedy return man Allen Rossum (ankle) haven’t practiced all week so look for Gang Green to pick on Donald Strickland and Marcus Hudson if Clements cant go. The Broncos kept the receivers in check so make sure to watch if Schottenheimer employs more quick slants and crossing patterns to get Favre and the offense in a flow.

Dustin Keller: This guy seems to always make it into my blog one way or another every week. Keller’s on pace to finish real high on a list of first year tight ends. He’s close to finishing fifth behind John Mackey. Keller was the one bright spot in the passing game last week (7 receptions 77 yards) and, at least I feel, will play a key role in dissecting the 49ers linebacker core. Last year’s AP Defensive Rookie of the Year Patrick Willis will have his hands full if S Michael Lewis can’t provide him coverage in the secondary and if beaten could mean big problems for San Francisco’s passing defense. However, I’m sure Mike Singeltary won’t let Willis get into those type of situations. Don’t surprised to see him split wide on third down passing situations this Sunday.

NT Kris Jenkins: As you can tell from the quote above, Jenkins is very upset about the way he performed against Denver. If San Francisco’s offensive line can’t contain Jenkins and the rest of the line, Shaun Hill won’t be pulling off any upsets so soon. He seems poised for a bounce back game but we’ll wait and see. The 49ers have given up 43 sacks (31st) this year, so the match-up between San Francisco’s O-line and Gang Green’s D-line is something that must be payed attention to.

SF:

RB Frank Gore: Even though the 49ers have given up 43 sacks and are ranked 25th in rushing this year, Gore is still a perennial Pro Bowler who can make a play regardless of who’s in front of him. However, he’s lacked in production over the past two weeks (38 rushes 92 yards) but has surpassed his touchdown total from last year (5) this year (6). He versus OLB Bryan Thomas is a key match up to watch. Thomas has been tight in defending the run in open space this year. And if the Jet decide to be as physical with San Francisco receivers as they were with the Titans, Gore should see significant touches and screen passes(he’s second on the team in catches). “He’s a good back. He is a tough inside runner,” DE Shaun Ellis said. “He runs with power and speed. Their offensive line does a lot of funky blocking schemes. It’s just being aware of it and tackling. Last week we didn’t do a great job of tackling. They got a lot of yards after contact.”

WR Josh Morgan: Logic would say Issac Bruce or Bryant Johnson is the receiver to watch for. Not quite. Morgan, although limited in practice this week, is an immediate threat to the secondary, particularly the safeties. He’s deceptively quick and runs well across the middle. He only has 15 catches this year but if he bounces back from his groin injury in time for Sunday’s game, look for him to see a lot of action in first and third down situations.

TE Vernon Davis: Davis hasn’t lived up to what a former 6th overall pick should bring. He’s sputtered this season logging only 19 catches so far (he had 52 all of last year). If the line holds up and Gore creates havoc out of the backfield, Davis could be that short-yardage second or third down receiver to move the chains. Many felt he was the next Antonio Gates when he came into the league. He has yet to even scrape that yet.

Jets 28 49ers 10

For a third week in a row, the Jets will have to face a team that’s in first place in its respective division.  Gang Green took it to the Titans last week and it’s #2 run offense and #1 pass defense.  Now the Jets will have to stop the #3 passing offense in the league in the Denver Broncos.  However, with standout WR Eddie Royal limited this week, it’ll be interesting to see who steps up for Denver if he can’t go or the Jets take him out of the equation in passing situations.  The secondary of the Jets will be on the spot this week once again in trying to slow the Broncos’ passing attack.  Cutler, has been solid most of the season, ranking third among QB’s in passing yards, fifth in completions and sixth in touchdowns.  In short, as Cutler goes, so does Denver.  The Vanderbilt alum needs to have a big game against the Jets secondary to have a chance of coming out of East Rutherford with a victory.  Stopping the third year QB and keeping him inside the pocket is imperative for the Jets. 

Mangini on Cutler’s mobility:  “He makes a lot of plays on the run. He makes a lot of really athletic, defensive players miss. There has been several examples in individual games where they may have a free blitz or it looks like he’s going to get sacked, [and] he makes guys miss, rolls out of the pocket and reads something big down the field. With his arm strength, everything is a possibility. It’s not like he can elude the rush and only throw something 15-20 yards. It can go 60 as easily as it can go three.”

DEN:

Brandon Stokley and Tony Scheffler: After Marshall and Royal, these two are next in line in team receptions leaderboard respectively.  With Royal limited in practice and Marshall most likely drawing most of the coverages this Sunday, these two will find holes in the Jets 26th ranked passing defense if Law and Co. slip up on third downs.  Scheffler has been known to have big games (4 rec 92 yards against Cle. in Wk 10) in spurts and Stokley has been clutch this year in third down situations.  Even though Marshall has 80+ receiving yards over the past three games, the TE and secondary WR position is a must watch this Sunday.

Denver’s Secondary and run defense:  The Broncos’ secondary has been more porous than a pasta strainer this season.  They’ve let up over 235 ypg and if Favre sticks to his one or none INT games on Sunday, it’ll be a long day for Denver.  Player to Pick on for Gang Green:  Dre Bly.  Although he has 41 tackles (37 solo) this year, he’s been beat many times on the deep ball.  If he starts to struggle, look for CB Champ Bailey to man up on Cotchery and Coles.  And even though this may sound premature, I don’t think any of these linebackers can cover TE Dustin Keller so watch out for that too.  Even though Denver has only allowed three 100-yard rushers this season, with Gang Green’s AFC leading rusher in Thomas Jones and Denver’s 27th ranked run defense, look for the Jets to lead the way with Jones and RB Leon Washington.   

Peyton Hillis:  The rookie has rushed for 118 yards and three scores in the past two games.  But I think he’ll have a little more trouble this game, facing the third ranked rush defense in New York (78 ypg).  Cutler needs a run game to establish a balance and set up the play action and roll outs.  With Hillis being the only reliable back as of late, the flow of the Broncos’ offense rests with him.  The Broncos only have one 100 yard rusher this season and it’s safe to say that it’s a good chance they won’t have a second this Sunday.

NYJ:

Jets Secondary:  Last week, Jets’ fans saw a different Jets secondary.  They saw a physical, in-your-face group that played whistle to whistle.  That’s what the Jets will need to stop Marshall and Royal this Sunday.  Up until last week, and even before that, the secondary has been the weakest link in Gang Green’s chain.  Look for Cutler to pick on DB Dwight Lowery and David Barrett this Sunday considering Ty Law found the fountain of youth and Darrelle Revis is…well….Darrelle Revis.  Denver’s Brandon Stokley is a great route-runner so look for him to find some holes underneath if the Jets play the deep ball against Marshall or Royal.

DE Shaun Ellis:  The Jets defense line hasn’t faced a line like this yet.  And neither has Shaun Ellis.  Denver’s offensive line has only given up seven sacks, but I think Cutler’s mobility has something to do with that.  As I said before, the Broncos go as Cutler does so the Jets will need to put him on the ground early and often on Sunday and I think Ellis will have something to do with that.  Ellis hasn’t had a two sack game since Week 11 of last year (19-16 win over Pittsburgh) and I think he’s due for one.  I wouldn’t say this if he had to matchup against probable Pro Bowler in LT Ryan Clady.

WR David Clowney:  I know I know, he hasn’t played at all and really isn’t something to watch for.  But why hasn’t he?  He’s at full strength and creates more separation than most of the entire Jets’ receiving core.  He’s faster than Coles and Cotchery and more versatile than Stuckey.  I’ve been turning this over in my mind all week and this would be a great game for Clowney to seek his teeth into.  The Broncos’ secondary is weak and he’d have a field day with them.  They can barely cover Raiders’ receivers, which most don’t hold a candle to Clowney and the Jets WR’s.  This is just wishful thinking, but if there’s any game that Clowney should play in, this is it.  Mangini will probably keep him inactivated and what not, but if you ask me, he’s only hurting himself.  I wrote a story on Clowney back on 7/31/08 (check latest stories on the JI.com) that he’d be making an impact this season and I was right until he suffered a shoulder injury in the preseason.  This guy will make an impact sometime this season.  When will that be remains to be seen.

Being that I was freakishly accurate with my predictions last week, I think that “What To Watch For” is staying.  But then again, who’s really an expert right?

It doesn’t get any easier for Gang Green this coming Sunday when they travel to Music City to face the unbeaten Tennessee Titans helmed by QB Kerry Collins and rookie RB Chris Johnson.  If it wasn’t enough for the Jets to have to go to Foxboro and beat its division rival, now they have the pleasure of trying to dethrone the number one team in football ( 1A to the Giants).  Here’s what I think Jet fans should pay attention to this coming Sunday at 1:00 p.m.

NYJ:

1.  RB Leon Washington:  He’s become the fire to RB Thomas Jones’ thunder this season.  Washington leads the NFL in combined yardage (rushing, receiving, kickoff and punt returns) with 1,475.  Even though Jones leads the AFC in rushing yards this season, the tenth ranked run defense of Tennessee will be an interesting task for Jones and Washington to tackle.  If Jones gets stuffed by the D-line of the Titans, look for Mangini and Co. to look to Washington on quick screens and HB Draw’s out of the backfield pick up much needed yardage, considering the Titans passing defense is ranked sixth in yards per game.

2.  The Entire Jets Secondary:  Last week, the Titans trailed 14-3 going into halftime against the Jacksonville Jaguars.  Collins and friends came out and threw all over the Jags secondary to come away with the 24-14 victory.  Twenty-one of the Titans points were unanswered.  Gang Green’s passing defense is ranked 28th (ahead of Denver, Chicago, Seattle and San Diego respectively) and it showed last week against the Patriots and Matt Cassel (30-51 400 Yds 3 TD).  Being that the Jets D-line isn’t letting a breath of air through the down three of Ellis, Jenkins and Kenyon Coleman this season, if Johnson and RB Ledale White falter, look for Collins to spread the offense out with passes in the direction of TE Bo Scaife, WR’s Justin Gage and Justin McCareins.  And don’t forget about Brandon Jones.  He’s got a second gear that he hasn’t kicked into yet and he may surprise Darrelle Revis and Dwight Lowery if given the chance.

3.  Brett Favre:  obvious right?  He’s been tested by an array of passing defenses this year, but nothing quite like this one.  Led by DB Cortland Finnegan, the Titans are tied for second in the league for interceptions and are ranked first in points per game (13.1) and total points (131).  If there’s any game for Favre to play game manager (if he gets the chance) this is it.  In order for Gang Green to have a chance, they need this from Favre:  0 INT 0 fumbles and one or two touchdowns.  This is not the time for him to perform like the way he did against Kansas City in a few weeks ago.  Favre needs to play keep away if the Titans passing defense is its usual air-tight self on Sunday.  But the semi-good news for the Jets passing game is that CB’s Reynaldo Hill and Nick Harper haven’t practiced this week.  But remember, it’s only Wednesday. 

TENN:

1.  DE Kyle Vanden Bosch:  He’s another Titans cog that hasn’t practiced this week.  But rest assured that he’ll have a hefty role to play if he’s cleared for Sunday.  Vanden Bosch anchors a line along with DE Jevon Kearse and Haynesworth.  Those two draw double-teams almost every game which free’s up space for V-Bosch.  He and LT D’Brickashaw Ferguson will become well acquainted on Sunday if Mangini leaves “Brick” out on an island.  And if LB Keith Bulluck can go this week, it’s going to be a tough game for the Jets O-line.

2.  DB Cortland Finnegan-This guy’s a ball-hawk.  He always seems to make a play for the ball which is good and bad considering he could get burned by speedy WR’s Jerricho Cotchery and Chansi Stuckey.  Finnegan is tied for team lead in interceptions (4-Hope, Griffin) with one going back for a touchdown against the Texans in Week 3.  He could prove to be a thorn in the Jets side if Favre gets pass happy and forces one too many in the wrong places. 

3.  The Titans secondary:  I know I know, I just profiled one of the pieces.  But this unit is so sound that it could be the deciding factor in whether or not Gang Green beats them or not on Sunday.  Green Bay almost did it but fell apart and Jacksonville started out fast but it all went downhill after that.  With Finnegan, Hope, Griffin and players like Eric King roaming around the secondary, it’s hard to say that, just because they’re so good, that they’ll have at least one INT on Favre.  They’ve reaked havoc on top QB’s like Peyton Manning Aaron Rodgers and Carson Palmer (before he fell apart).  I’ll predict that at least one or two sportswriters will list Brett Favre vs Titans Secondary in the Sunday previews.

This is a game that I feel should be moved to the Sunday night spot on NBC.  Then again, i guess that’s why i’m in print journalism and not broadcast.  But seriously, IND vs SD on Sunday night?  That needs to be flexed.  Sunday’s game features two top-tier AFC teams which could potentially affect the 1 and 2 spots on the AFC Playoff totem pole if the Titans lose two or three down the stretch. 

Prediction: Ok. I’ll say it.  Jets 19 Titans 17

Thursday can’t come soon enough for Gang Green Fans across NFL Land.  The Jets take on the Patriots this Thursday in Foxboro on the NFL Network (don’t worry, NY and NE get it on channel 11 I believe but don’t quote me on it).  The Jets, coming off a smackdown against the Rams look to make good on the expectations that were bestowed upon them in the offseason when they spent 140+ million dollars on free agents and the blockbuster trade for Brett Favre.  Here’s what I think you need to watch for on Thursday.

1.  Dustin Keller:  Well…it’s about time he had “the game” that many expected him to have eons ago. Six catches 107 yards with a score sounds a lot more like the Keller Gang Green expected when they traded back into the first round last april to snag the 6′4″ TE.  If The Pats shutdown the wideouts or roll up double teams on Favre’s go-to-guy Jerricho Cotchery, look for Keller to find some holes in the sketchy secondary of New England.

2.  Kris Jenkins:  Is this guy pro-bowl material or what.  He’s done everything he’s been asked since he became a Jet.  Jenkins has become a force at the NT position and is a line-changing player since the run game of the Pats is without RB Lawrence Maroney.  Oh and I forgot, the Jets run D is ranked 5th against the run this year with the addition of Jenkins.  Last year this time, it was ranked 29th. 

3.  Dwight Lowery:  Look for Belichick and Co. to send Randy Moss and Wes Welker his way early and often.  The rookie DB has showed a lot of promise over the course of this season and is starting to develop a swagger that is needed at the CB position.  Having mentors like Darrelle Revis and now Ty Law to talk shop with undoubtedly helps his cause.  This would be a good time for Lowery to have a breakout rookie game considering what’s at stake.  With the Bills reeling from two straight losses, and with Miami creeping up in the hunt for a playoff spot, Lowery and the Jets need to stick it to the NE offense and then some.

NE:

1. Wes Welker:  With the loss of Brady this year, you figure Matt Cassel would throw more towards Moss right?  Wrong.  Welker leads the team in catches and receiving yards this year and has become Cassel’s primary target in key situations.  However, Moss is no slouch too.  He’s been struggling lately and I’m sure he’d love to have a big game against a division rival in what probably could be the deciding matchup in the AFC East battle.  But back to Welker.  Last year he led the NFL in catches.  This year not quite, but it’s safe to say he’s not having a down year.  Look for Gang Green to put multiple coverages on Welker this coming week considering they’ve been struggling in passing defense this season.

2.  Bill Belichick:  You’re probably saying huh? Well, Brett Favre put it very straight:  “He beats you with simplicity.  That’s why he’s so good.”  I’m sure Belichick was preparing for this game while Matt Cassel was driving the Pats toward a 20-10 victory last week over the Bills.  He know’s what’s at stake here.  As long as the Pats have this man pulling the strings, they’ll always have a chance.

3.  Jabar Gaffney:  Again, you’re probably scratching your head.  He’s always been a thorn in the Jets side.  He hasn’t done much this year (16 catches 154 Yards 1 TD), but with Moss and Welker drawing a lot of coverage this Thursday, look for he and guys like Ben Watson to get some looks.  And don’t forget about recent stud BenJarvus Green-Ellis who ripped up the Bills D this past Sunday.

All in all, there’s a lot to watch for on Thursday.  But these things, some major, some minor (very minor) could play a more of a key role than many think.

Courtesy of NFL.com:

A standoff between the New York Jets and disgruntled tight end Chris Baker ended without fanfare and attention over the weekend when the two sides connected on a new deal.

Baker’s deal, which had two years remaining on it, was extended three years through the 2012 season. The new deal will pay him $12.2 million over those three new years, including $9 million of guaranteed money if Baker plays in 50 percent of the Jets plays this season and is on the roster the fifth day of the league year. But if the Jets opt against paying the guaranteed money, then Baker would become a free agent in March.

If Baker fails to play in 50 percent of the Jets’ plays, he still will get the three-year, $12.2 million extension –- just without any guaranteed money.

All together, Baker now has five years remaining on a contract that is worth $15 million.

The reason the deal has been kept so quiet is that Baker’s salary-cap number for this season did not change nor was there any guaranteed money paid to him this year. Thus, it was difficult to detect the deal through the updated contracts filed with the NFL Players Association’s. Plus, the deal was finalized Friday, two days before the Jets opened the season with a victory in Miami.

Each side could claim victory. Baker got the new deal that he said was promised to him. The Jets got their tight end in a peaceful and happy frame of mind.

Well, as most of you know, Tom Brady is out for year and the makeup of the AFC East has changed drastically.  However, the Pats can’t be counted out even though of the circumstances and that it’s only Week 1 (technically Week 2).  Essentially, it could be come a two-team race between the Jets and Bills if the Pats go into a nosedive (remember they barely held on to beat KC Sunday and I they’re going no where this year), weeks 8 and 14 hold more than just the yearly meetings of division opponents.  If the Pats slip, Buffalo is the only hindrance on Gang Green’s run. 

But remember, and I know he hasn’t started a game since high school, Matt Cassel has sat the bench since the plagues and knows the offense as well as anyone on that team.  He hooked up with Randy Moss on Sunday (6 receptions 116 Yards and 1 TD) and was accurate and poised in the pocket with an O-line that looked out of sync.  But then again, the Chiefs don’t have the same pass rush as Gang Green.  Lets not forget, Brady or no Brady, the Patriots are still the team to beat until they’re under .500 or playing so badly that Gillette defaults on their stadium naming rights agreement. 

Yes it’s REALLY early, but here are some things that I think need to go right for the Jets to make a run at this division:

1.  Sweep the NFC West:  I know I know it sounds trivial, but it’s not.  I see no reason why the Jets shouldn’t win at least three if not four games against the NFC West.  I think Donavan McNabb is still eluding STL defenders as I write this, Arizona could cause a problem but the Cardinals defense has too many holes and the corners aren’t fast enough to hold up against Cotchery, I’m not going to even debate San Francisco, and Seattle will be the only roadblock on this escapade since they play at the Seahawks and it’s tough to win there.

2.  Keep throwing the deep ball:  Again, obvious but crucial.  The Deep Ball hasn’t been around Gang Green in some time and they can’t let up now.  They have the pieces, they just need to keep putting the puzzle together (preferably Favre to Cotchery).  And when Coles gets back to “full” speed, that will up holes for Dustin Keller who could also line up at wideout a few snaps.  Lets not forget TE Chris Baker.  One of my stories from TC said that he should just let his play do the talking, well, he had his longest catch in three years Sunday. 

3.  Consistent play from Revis and Lowery:  Even though it was against Miami, Lowery and Revis look like they could become a DB pair for quite some time, as long as Lowery doesn’t hit the rookie wall or David Barrett decides to realize that his job security is getting lesser and lesser each time Lowery steps on the field.  Revisand Lowery both played key roles this past Sunday, with the 4th and Goal deflection by Lowery and the game ending pick by Revis.  Next week doesn’t get any easier.  They’ll both have the pleasure of containing WR Randy Moss (see above for last week stats) and WR Wes Welker (07 NFL receptions leader). 

4.  Vernon Gholston needs to stand up:  Gholston did next to nothing on Sunday, but was in the mix on special teams.  His role as an OLB is crucial in getting pressure on the outside with Kenyon Coleman at RE.  Gholston needs to start reacting more instead of thinking too much out there on the field, a very common statement in the New York and national media concerning the former Buckeye.

5.  Steady play at the RB position:  Yes Thomas Jones had a great game Sunday, but this week will be the real test to see if this revamped O-line is what it is.  Last year he churned out 1,119 behind an offensive front last year that barely supported it’s own weight let alone the pressure of 300 pound defenders.  Even though it’s September, Jones appears to have arrived after having a relatively quiet camp and preseason.  Hopefully, in Gang Green’s case, he’ll keep performing like he did on Sunday so that the Jets don’t have to rely solely on #4’s right arm.