The Time Has Come

By Tyson Rauch

The New York Jets versus the New England Patriots on national television.  This is for sole possession of first place,  does it get any better than this?  Gang Green is heading into this marquee match-up having won  5 of their last 6 games while the Patriots have won 4 of their last 6.  In terms of the overall series New England has won 11 of the last 12 games versus the Jets.

What do all of these numbers mean?  Nothing.

This is the biggest regular season statement game Gang Green has played in since 1998 when the Jets beat the Dolphins in Miami to prove to the world they were contenders.  The time has come for Gang Green to show the New England Patriots and the rest of the NFL, that this is not the ‘Same Old Jets’ and that this is a team ready to make a strong run into the playoffs.  The time has come to prove that this is not a team that will be mocked by the local media and talking heads, but one that is ready to flex its muscles and will have their play do the talking.

This Jets team is winning the battle of the trenches with both the offensive and defensive lines imposing their will on their opponents.  From the relentless pass rush, to the strong running game this team has finally established its identity and found the swagger that goes along with it.  This swagger along with the veteran leadership of players like Brett Favre, Thomas Jones, Shaun Ellis and Kris Jenkins should be the combination to prove to New England that the time has now come to take over the AFC East.

Parting Shots:

• The Jets hosted a military appreciation day at the stadium and it was great to see the Armed Forces get the recognition that they deserve.  A good portion of the soldiers happened to park in 5H where I tailgate and it was great to have the chance to meet the men and women that protect our country.
• The only question I have is why were they sitting in their cars and hanging around in the parking lot? Could the Jets not give them a nice party in the team bubble where they have advertised VIP tailgates?  The Jets have no problem offering these pricey VIP packages to Jets fans — could they not give our soldiers an ultimate Jets game day experience?
• On behalf of my tailgate group it was our pleasure to open our grills and games to the soldiers, as did others in our area, and we wish you nothing but the best of health and luck while fighting for our country.
• I have a hard time believing Ty Law will have any impact at all in this game. I doubt he is in football shape and he still will need to learn the playbook regardless of his familiarity with Mangini. If anything he will get some serious reps against the Titans next week.

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