Jets v. Colts Preview

With the AFC Playoff picture getting clearer and clearer it looks like the Jets have a golden opportunity to gain control their own destiny by the end of the day.  However, this assumes that the Jets will actually be able to win a game against the 14-0 Colts.  The Colts have been good all season and it looks like Peyton Manning will be playing a complete game today unless their is a blowout in either direction.  The Jets will have to use their #1 defense and rushing attack to shut down Manning and keep him off field.

What to watch for...

• How long will the Colts starters play?  This involves a lot more than just Peyton Manning.  Manning looks like he is going to play but this does not mean Colts players such as Addai and Dwight Freeney will be in for the entire game.  If the Colts start resting some of their starters it will benefit the Jets greatly.

• Can the Jets avoid turnovers?  The Jets will need to play a perfect game to upset the undefeated Colts.  This means executing field goals, not throwing interceptions, not missing easy interceptions, and not fumbling the ball.  If Thomas Jones can get going on the ground it should help Sanchez avoid forcing bad throws.

• Can the Jets stay close early?  The Jets cannot allow Peyton Manning to get a big lead early.  Sanchez is not ready to lead this team on a big comeback and the Jets will need to be in a position in this game where they can utilize their rushing attack with Jones and Greene and use that to set up the pass.  Getting behind early could spell disaster for the Jets.

Who to watch for...

• Mark Sanchez could have this game put on his shoulders early if the Jets defense is unable to shut down Peyton Manning early.  He will have to make some big plays in this game for the Jets to have any shot.  

• Thomas Jones will have to have another good game to take the pressure off of Sanchez and to keep the clock moving and Manning off the field.  If Jones can find some holes early it will improve the Jets chances greatly.

• Lito Shephard, Donald Strickland, and Dwight Lowery will be playing across from the great Darelle Revis and will need to make plays.  The Colts have so many weapons on offense other than Reggie Wayne and they will need to be well covered.

I do not think the Jets are going to be able to win this game.  The Colts are simply too good and Peyton Manning is just amazing at both building early leads and coming back late in games.  They are tough to play on the road in the dome and the Jets will need some luck to beat him.  The defense will have to play the game of their lives and Sanchez will have to limit mistakes.

Game Prediction:
Colts- 27
Jets- 13