Yes, New York Jets haters you have to deal with another week of Rex Ryan as the same old Jets are back in the AFC Championship Game for the second year in a row. This week's opponent is distinctly different from the past two. The Jets will be returning to Pittsburgh, where they won 22-17 back in Week 15 to face the Steelers. Unlike the Colts and Patriots, the Steelers are built around their defense, rushing attack, and ability to throw the ball vertically. There is no hatred or personal vendettas this week as both teams have a healthy respect and admiration for each other.
Pittsburgh didn't look sharp early last week against Baltimore but used a few big plays late in the game to complete a comeback victory. Ben Roethlisberger is always a handful and the Steelers have quietly assembled a collection of very talented receivers who can stretch the field, led by Mike Wallace. Their defense is arguably the most difficult to run against in the NFL but the Jets had some success earlier in the year. Troy Polamalu is back in the lineup but he didn't look like himself last week against the Ravens.
It remains to be seen whether the Jets will get kick returner/Wildcat weapon Brad Smith back for this Sunday's game. Everybody else should be good to go.
Just like the past two weeks, we will be breaking down the offenses tomorrow, the defenses on Thursday, and the special teams on Friday, along with having a few feature articles throughout the week and all the other updates you will need.
A few reasons to feel confident about the Jets' chances to reach the Super Bowl:
- They won in Pittsburgh a month ago, hence they should be comfortable and confident for this road trip.
- The Jets ran for 106 yards on the Steelers in their previous meeting. Pittsburgh only averages allowing 62.8 yards per game on the ground.
- Have you seen how the Jets defense has played lately?
- Have you seen the types of catches Braylon Edwards, Santonio Holmes and Jerricho Cotchery have been making lately?
- Pittsburgh just allowed 24 points to a very average Baltimore offense.
- Pittsburgh has won enough damn Super Bowls, this is our year.
Pittsburgh's stats from this season: