JETS ARTICLES - WED 11/22

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http://blogs.trb.com/sports/football/jets/blog/2006/11/chad_shoulders_the_criticism.html

Chad Shoulders the Criticism

By Tom Rock

So, since you asked, what do I think about Chad Pennington?

Here

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http://www.northjersey.com/page.php?qstr=eXJpcnk3ZjczN2Y3dnFlZUVFeXkxMjEmZmdiZWw3Zjd2cWVlRUV5eTcwMjQyNjUmeXJpcnk3ZjcxN2Y3dnFlZUVFeXk2

Jets' wish list: playoffs

Wednesday, November 22, 2006

By RANDY LANGE

STAFF WRITER

Pete Kendall, in his understated, Bostonian way, was of the opinion that the Chicago loss, while difficult, shouldn't be a kill shot to the Jets' plans for the rest of this season.

"I've been in situations where, when you get to Thanksgiving, it's all about being a pro," the Jets' 11th-year guard said. "I don't think that's the case here."

In that spirit, this week Gang Green fans are giving double thanks, for Turkey Day and then for the arrival of the six weeks of Christmas -- those final six games that are looking even finer than when the NFL first bestowed them in April.

Six opponents with losing records. A combined winning percentage of .350, easily the league's softest closing stretch.

Playoffs, here we come.

Right?

Not so fast, Rudolph. The Jets have gotten to 5-5 -- a major triumph for the first 10 games of Eric Mangini's first year at the controls. And with the way they rebounded from the Jacksonville blowout and the Cleveland forceout, they should bounce back from Chicago in good shape.

But there are reasons, rooted in ancient history and current events, that these Jets may not make it to the postseason. For openers, AFC teams have about a one-in-four chance of starting 5-5 and finishing in the playoffs since the advent of the third wild card in 1990.

And what will it take to make it this year? A 4-2 record would lift the Jets to 9-7 and that might be enough. Then again, it might not be. Since 2000, the conference has had only one 9-7 wild card, Cleveland in 2002. (The Jets were a 9-7 division winner that season.)

The AFC rule of thumb: seven or more teams at .500 or better with six games to go, 9-7 gets you in. Fewer than seven, you're out.

This year five teams fall into that category, and three of them -- the Broncos (7-3), Chiefs (6-4) and Jaguars (6-4) -- lead the Jets and Bengals for the two wild-card berths.

Then you might get to thinking that 5-1 against this lot is, well, at least conceivable.

That's probably what the 1987 strike-season Jets thought of their final six, all with losing records for a .407 strength of schedule. But they lost five of them to go from 5-4 to 6-9. Similar scripts for Bruce Coslet's first Jets team in 1990 (.375 schedule strength, 4-6 to 6-10) and Bill Parcells' first team in 1997 (.417 schedule strength, 6-4 to 9-7).

Sure, these Jets have shown themselves capable, with continued excellent health, of beating any remaining foe.

But Houston, which comes in Sunday, also is growing a team and playing close games. Brett Favre's elbow is OK and Lambeau Field is tough. Buffalo wants payback for Week 3. Minnesota's run defense is the NFL's best and Brooks Bollinger may be starting at QB. Nick Saban's Dolphins again are showing proof of second-half life. And Oakland ... well, the Jets can only hope they're 9-6 and playing the Raiders on New Year's Eve.

This postseason path is treacherous, which is why Mangini will probably say sometime this week, "Unless Playoffs plays linebacker for the Texans, we're not talking about it."

And why fans should be wildly thankful if this season comes in at 8-8 and consider any more wins than that as gravy.

E-mail: lange@northjersey.com

* * *

Jets (5-5) vs. Texans (3-7)

Giants Stadium

Sunday, 1 p.m.

Early line

Jets by 6

This is the largest spread in the Jets' favor under coach Eric Mangini. In their only other games as favorites, they won and covered back-to-back against Miami and Detroit. The Texans as underdogs under Gary Kubiak are 3-6 (4-5 vs. spread). Three games ago, Houston was a 12½-point road dog in its 14-10 Meadowlands loss to the Giants. In their two previous meetings, the Jets were favored, won and covered in both, 19-14 at Reliant Stadium in 2003 and 29-7 at Giants Stadium in '04.

On the hot seat

The Jets' cornerbacks

Andre Dyson and David Barrett, last week's starters, have been battling multiple dings the past several weeks. Rookie Drew Coleman, while fast and resilient, has struggled in crunch time the last two games, and Justin Miller has played little on defense lately. In come the Texans with Andre Johnson, the NFL's leading receiver with 74 catches; Eric Moulds, Johnson's still-productive mentor; and QB David Carr, who tied the league record with 22 consecutive completions vs. Buffalo.

Game plan

This could be a big rebound game for Chad Pennington-to-Laveranues Coles. Houston RCB Demarcus Faggins was scorched by the Bills for two first-quarter 83-yard touchdown passes from J.P. Losman to Lee Evans, and the Texans' defense is 31st in yards allowed per pass play and 32nd on third down (46.3 percent conversion rate). The Jets' run defense will be tested again by the unheralded tandem of Sam Gado and Wali Lundy, who averaged 7.2 yards per carry vs. Buffalo.

-- Randy Lange

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http://www.thejournalnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20061122/SPORTS01/611220381/1108/SPORTS01

Road home might be tough for Jets

By Andrew Gross

The Journal News

(Original Publication: November 22, 2006)

The Jets reached the midway point of the season a .500 team in every way, having split eight regular-season games and four in the preseason. Two additional games - granted, against two of the NFL's best - have brought another win and another loss.

At no point under rookie coach Eric Mangini have the Jets either won or lost more than two games in a row.

"We faced pretty good competition and maybe we've been battling with them. That's a good thing for us," tight end Chris Baker said. "But we need to get on a roll and get some consistency going. It's an important thing just to build our confidence."

So it's now or never for the Jets (5-5), starting with the Texans (3-7) Sunday at the Meadowlands. Including Houston, the Jets' final six opponents have a combined 21-39 record, and there's not a winning record among them.

Perfect for that 5-1 roll that probably will be necessary to secure an AFC wild-card berth, right?

Perhaps not. The opponents' records now are somewhat deceiving.

"I think if you stop focusing on what's in front of you, that's when you stop progress," Mangini said. "You see week in and week out teams with different records, teams that the statistics say one thing, the record says one thing - then the game unfolds, and the game turns out totally different than what statistically it should or what based on record it should."

The Bills (4-6) have won two of three with a 17-16 loss to the Colts (9-1), while the Dolphins (4-6) have won three straight, starting with a 31-13 road win over the Bears (9-1).

It's also fair to note that the Jets are closer to the Bills and Dolphins, who are tied for last in the AFC East, than they are to the first-place Patriots (7-3) in the division.

Meanwhile, the Packers (4-6) have won three of five despite this past Sunday's 35-0 loss to the Patriots, and while the Texans have lost three of four, those defeats have come by a combined 13 points. They have beaten the Jaguars (6-4) twice; the Jets lost at Jacksonville 41-0.

In fact, the only thing that's been consistent about the Jets lately is the offensive inconsistency. It's getting late in the season for quarterback Chad Pennington and his receivers to be wondering aloud about a loss of chemistry.

"We're close to getting to where we want to be," wide receiver Jerricho Cotchery said. "Everything takes time. We just have to hold up on our end of the ball, because the defense is constantly getting better each week."

Baker said the team isn't worried that time might be running out to put together a lengthy winning streak.

But the players could start to get antsy if this pattern of win one, lose one continues.

"Obviously, it's frustrating to lose, but I think as a team we're getting better," safety Erik Coleman said. "It's frustrating, but we can't get too down about it."

Note: The Jets and ESPN 1050 jointly announced yesterday a two-year extension to broadcast games and other related programs on the radio station through 2008. This season is the third that ESPN and its sister station, WABC 770, have broadcast Jets games.

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http://www.newsday.com/sports/football/jets/ny-spbriefs224986525nov22,0,7426392.story?coll=ny-jets-print

JETS, ESPN RADIO AGREE.

The Jets and ESPN 1050 announced a two-year extension of their partnership through the 2008 season. Jets games have been heard on the station for the past three seasons. - Neil Best

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http://www.newsday.com/sports/football/jets/ny-spjchalk224986501nov22,0,5535030.column?coll=ny-jets-print

Backs' committee unanimously in favor

Tom Rock

November 22, 2006

The Jets' biggest advocate of their running back-by-committee philosophy has been Cedric Houston. He found great success in such a system in college, when he and Gerald Riggs Jr. both had 1,000-yard seasons running out of the same backfield for Tennessee.

In training camp, when it was thought that Houston and Derrick Blaylock would split time at the position, Houston used that experience to explain that it could be done and both players involved could find success. Rotating two running backs keeps legs fresh, gives defenses twice as much to think about and provides options in play-calling.

With Houston injured and Blaylock ineffective, the Jets' committee was restructured to include rookie Leon Washington and Kevan Barlow, each of whom has had success to varying degrees at varying times. But with Houston's return from that hyperextended knee suffered in Week 4, and a team-high 50 rushing yards on 11 attempts against the Bears on Sunday, the committee has become a little bigger. And with this volume, not even the biggest proponent is sure three heads are better than two.

"I don't know, we'll see," Houston said of the tailback trio. "It is kind of tight. But we all bring different stuff to the table and we can all be effective defending on what kind of defense [opponents] are in."

Washington is the slashing, cutting running back who can get to the corner and turn short runs into big plays. He has the Jets' only two 100-yard rushing games of the season. Barlow has always been considered a complete back, but since joining the Jets late in training camp, he has been used as a short-yardage runner. He leads the Jets with six touchdowns and splashed through the Foxborough mud for a team-high 75 yards two weeks ago. Houston is the only one of the three who has performed every time he was given an opportunity, going back as far as his 108 yards in the preseason finale and his team-high 49 yards against the Colts before getting hurt in the third quarter. His 4.4 yards per carry are the highest of any Jets running back.

"I haven't played that much, so I know it's crucial when I get out there to make plays so the coach can see it and call my number the next game," said Houston, who was healthy enough to play against the Patriots but was listed as inactive. Houston said his knee is 100-percent healthy.

One thing none of the running backs will do is step out of line and bark about their carries. Even after he was held to four touches for 2 yards against the Bears, Barlow wouldn't criticize his slice of the playing time. Though he has been eager to up his carries and would prefer to avoid the short-yardage pigeonhole, Barlow has not openly griped. "K.B. will get his shine," he said several weeks ago.

Even the rookie Washington, whose size (5-8, 202 pounds) probably prevents him from being an every-down back at this point in his career, said he understands the situation.

"If it's three guys, whatever kind of carries we get, we've got to take advantage of those opportunities," Washington said. "Whatever guy is doing well or whoever has the hot hand, we want to help the team out to win. We don't have any division on that part."

Storylines

Defense good, numbers bad

The Jets go from facing the NFL's top defense to one of the worst. Houston allows 352.1 yards and 23 points per game. Those are amazingly comparable numbers to what the Jets are yielding (353.4 yards, 21.7 points), but the Jets' recent turnaround has yet to have a reflection in the season's numbers. In the last nine quarters, the Jets have allowed only 24 points, thanks to a change in philosophy (more blitzing) and increased comfort in the 3-4 system. They were burned on the blitz by the Bears once Sunday, but that shouldn't be enough to dissuade the team from what has become an effective strategy.

Coleman gets spiked

Rookie cornerback Drew Coleman is hardly long in the tooth, but he will be getting long in the foot. After missing a one-on-one tackle against the Bears' Mark Bradley that led to a touchdown in a 10-0 loss on Sunday, Coleman said he will probably wear longer cleats against the Texans this week. "Everyone was slipping the whole game, everyone slips on that turf, so I can't sit here and blame it on the turf," Coleman said of the play. "He made a good move, it wasn't a slick spot." Still, Coleman will go with the extended cleats to combat the FieldTurf and the Houston receivers.

Increased expectations

Despite the disappointing loss to the Bears, the Jets are still in the playoff hunt, one game behind the Jaguars and Chiefs for the final wild-card position and tied with the Bengals. Winning against the Patriots increased expectations, but going 1-1 in the two-game stretch against New England and the Bears was more than the Jets could have hoped for. "I understand that our fans want more, and our players want more than that," guard Pete Kendall said. "People are upset when we lose games, and that means that they expected more out of us. And that's fine, because we expect more out of ourselves and that's why we're disappointed when we lose a game."

Statlines

Not only does Kerry Rhodes, right, lead the Jets with four sacks, but he also has more than any other defensive back in the NFL. The second-year safety has become a dangerous weapon with a knack for finding the quarterback, as he did Sunday against the Bears. No one other than John Abraham or Shaun Ellis has led the Jets in sacks in the last five seasons, and no defensive back has done it since 1986, when Bobby Humphrey had four (tied with Joe Klecko).

The Jets' leaders in sacks this season:

Kerry Rhodes 4

Bryan Thomas 3

Shaun Ellis 3

Eric Barton 2

Victor Hobson 2

Dewayne Robertson 2

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http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/football/jets/story/473682p-398512c.html

Brick builds strong case

BY RICH CIMINI

DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER

It will be one of the most compelling matchups of the NFL season, a rare head-to-head showdown between two of the league's most ballyhooed rookies: Jets left tackle D'Brickashaw Ferguson versus Texans defensive end Mario Williams.

Williams was drafted first, Ferguson fourth. On Sunday at Giants Stadium, they'll be crashing into each other, oh, about 50 or 60 times, a heavyweight matinee that might warrant a blow-by-blow account.

"Oh, God, that's a scout's dream," an NFC scout said yesterday, speaking on the condition of anonymity. "You have two top guys going against each other. We'll see which one rises to the occasion. I'd give the edge to (Williams), but it's close."

Imagine if the Jets had to choose between the two players. Well, it could've happened.

If it weren't for one of the biggest surprises in draft history, Williams might have been playing for the Jets, chasing Reggie Bush around the field on Sunday.

The Texans shook up the draft by selecting Williams over Bush, who fell to the Saints at No.2. If the Texans had picked Bush, as many assumed they would, it would've created a ripple effect that could've left the Jets with a choice between Williams and Ferguson.

Here's how: The Saints would've picked linebacker A.J.Hawk, it was later learned. The Titans, selecting third, would've stayed with quarterback Vince Young, leaving the Jets with the Williams-Ferguson dilemma.

It's believed the Jets had both players rated among the top three on their draft board, along with Bush. Williams or Ferguson? Even now, seven months later, general manager Mike Tannenbaum wasn't saying.

"All I'm going to say is, I can't comment on speculation," Tannenbaum said yesterday. "We're really happy with Brick, and Mario is a good player, too."

Pressed on the hypothetical question, Tannenbaum replied, "It's impossible to say what we would've done because there were a gazillion moving parts and nobody knew what was going to happen (with possible trades)."

Cynics will have a field day with Tannenbaum's noncommittal response. No doubt, the Ferguson-Williams question would've prompted a fascinating draft-room discussion. Ferguson filled a bigger need than Williams, but Williams was regarded throughout the league as a once-in-a-decade prospect.

Now they're set to square off. Who was a better prospect coming out of college?

"You have to take the defensive end," the scout said. "It's so hard to find a guy with that size and speed. But (Ferguson) isn't even a notch below that."

Ferguson has performed as advertised. He's a better pass protector than run blocker - unofficially, he has allowed only three full sacks - although he's making strides in the running game. He can handle athletic ends, but he might struggle against a power player such as Williams (6-7, 291).

"Like any rookie, he's had some ups and downs, but there's an increasing level of consistency," Tannenbaum said of Ferguson.

Williams, scrutinized like few other rookies in recent memory, got off to a slow start. He went sackless for the first three games, fueling the criticism that the Texans blew it by not taking Bush. But, in recent weeks, Williams has started to emerge.

Playing mostly right end in the Texans' 4-3 alignment, Williams has 22 tackles, five pressures and 4-1/2 sacks, two shy of Bruce Smith's mark for most sacks by a rookie defensive lineman chosen No. 1 overall.

"The son of a gun is almost inhuman out there for how big and thick and solid he is," Giants tackle Bob Whitfield said after facing Williams in Week 9. "He dislocated the left side of (my) body when he hit me. He's going to be a force to be reckoned with."

The day of reckoning is Sunday: Ferguson versus Williams.

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http://www.nypost.com/seven/11222006/sports/jets/give_him_a_pass_jets_mark_cannizzaro.htm

GIVE HIM A PASS

By MARK CANNIZZARO

November 22, 2006 -- Leave Chad Pennington alone. Enough already with the knee-jerk reactions on the radio call-in airwaves and in other so-called expert corners of sports analysis.

Where were the exasperated "we can't win with Chad" calls when Pennington was throwing for 300 yards in each of the first two games? Where were they a week ago, when Pennington made some big plays in the Jets' win over the Patriots?

Sure, Pennington has hit a tough spell, the most inconsistent stretch of his career.

Does that mean he's done? Does it mean he's now incapable of being a winning quarterback for the Jets anymore?

Nonsense.

Pennington just came off the toughest two-game portion of the Jets' schedule - at New England (ranked No. 3 in overall defense) and Sunday against the 9-1 Bears (ranked No. 1) - and he's 1-1. A few weeks ago, the thought of splitting those two games was something any Jets fan would have signed up for without a second thought.

It's funny how perceptions change like the weather in sports, particularly regarding football, where teams' respective temperatures are taken on a weekly basis.

A week ago, Pennington and the Jets were the New York football heroes, having knocked off the big, bad Patriots in their backyard. Now the fans want to run Pennington out of town.

Sure, Pennington was a major reason why the Jets lost to the Bears, throwing two critical interceptions, one of which was in the Chicago end zone. And interceptions have uncharacteristically been the bane of Pennington's existence this season. Only three NFL QBs have thrown more than the 11 he's already thrown through 10 games.

The fact that Pennington's TD-to-INT ratio has always been rather good and that his strength has been the ability to avoid the game-turning mistakes are why Pennington is being questioned so heavily.

After the Chicago game, Pennington, citing some "chemistry" problems between he and his receivers, conceded his struggles, but insisted that his twice-surgically-repaired right shoulder, which people want to blame, is not an issue.

"Physically, I feel good," Pennington insisted after the Bears game. "Mentally, experiencing this is something I haven't experienced in my career - the inconsistency part. That's something that I'm dealing with."

Let's remember that Pennington is dealing with a running attack without a legitimate star feature back, the way Curtis Martin was for the Jets since he was acquired in 1998.

Though they have a couple of very good ones in Laveranues Coles and Jerricho Cotchery, the Jets, too, are without a true star, speed burner receiver.

In other words, the Jets do not have a single dynamic playmaker on offense who keeps opposing defensive coordinators up late at night trying to figure out ways of stopping him.

That said, though, Pennington does need to break out of his funk in a hurry. The Jets are now in a final six-game stretch where they can't afford to lose more than one, maybe two games, if they're going to earn a playoff berth.

The first of those six games comes Sunday against the 3-7 Texans. Only seven teams in the league have allowed more passing yards per game than the 226.9 the Texans allow. The Texans come to Giants Stadium fresh off allowing Bills quarterback J.P. Losman to throw for 340 yards.

After Houston, the Jets face five more teams with current losing records. Including the Texans, the cumulative record of the Jets' final five opponents is 21-39.

If Pennington can't turn himself back into the winning quarterback he's been when healthy during his career, then Jets fans will have plenty of legitimate gripes to air to the radio hosts and whoever else will listen.

[Sperm Edwards]

http://www.nj.com/jets/ledger/index.ssf?/base/sports-0/116417393927240.xml&coll=1

Jets confidential: Nugent is not showing enough kick

Wednesday, November 22, 2006

BY DAVE HUTCHINSON

Star-Ledger Staff

The trade went like this:

On April 21, 2005, the Jets dealt their first-round pick (26th overall) and a seventh-round selection to the Oakland Raiders in exchange for TE Doug Jolley, a second-round selection and two sixth-round picks.

The Jets used the second-round pick (47th overall) to select K Mike Nugent. With their first-round pick, the Jets could've taken Virginia TE Heath Miller. Jolley is no longer with the Jets.

Nugent, who had a record-setting career at Ohio State, came to the Jets with a reputation for having a big leg and being able to kick in bad weather. Thus far, he has shown neither, and a case in point came in Sunday's 10-0 loss to the Bears.

In a game in which every point was crucial and the conditions were mild for a mid-November day at the Meadowlands, the Jets passed up field- goal attempts of 50 and 52 yards. The moves spoke volumes about coach Eric Mangini's confidence -- or lack thereof -- in Nugent.

"I would love to be out there, but I always support the decisions we make," Nugent said. "I was hitting them really good in warmups. I think the 52-yarder in the first quarter was within range. The other one, the 50-yarder, the wind was a little bit in my face. It was a tough call."

Mangini said several factors go into deciding whether to attempt a kick, including distance, wind direction and the ball position. In both cases, he said, the coaches decided it was better not to kick.

Nugent (5-9, 198 pounds) has missed all three of his career attempts from 50 yards and beyond. His kickoffs rarely reach the end zone and he has only three career touchbacks.

Against the Bears, Nugent also didn't get enough air under his onside kick to begin the second half, Mangini said. Nugent agreed.

"I think I could've executed it a little better," he said. "It's a lot easier for our guys to catch that ball if I get a little more height on it where we could be sitting under it waiting to catch it."

It's too early to say if Nugent is a bust because kickers mature slowly. But the clock is ticking. He missed an extra point and field goals of 30 and 34 yards against Tennessee in Week 1.

Part of the problem with Nugent has been adjusting to the NFL's K-ball, which is harder and doesn't travel as far as the weather-beaten balls kickers use in college. As for his kickoffs, they come from the 30-yard line in the NFL as opposed to the 35-yard line in college.

Nonetheless, Nugent needs to step up if the Jets are to be consistent winners.

NEXT OPPONENT

The Houston Texans (3-7) are coming off a crushing 24-21 loss to the Bills. Buffalo quarterback J.P. Losman threw from 340 yards and three TDs, including a 15-yard game-winner to WR Peerless Price with 9 seconds left to play.

At least the Texans have two wins over Jacksonville to brag about.

DE Mario Williams, the first pick overall in last April's draft, is still finding his way. He has 4 1/2 sacks and 22 tackles this season. Houston ranks 28th in the NFL in total defense, allowing 352.1 yards per game.

Offensively, QB David Carr tied an NFL record with 22 straight completions against the Bills. Carr ranks ninth in the NFL in passing with a 69.4 completion percentage, nine TDs, six INTs and an 89.5 passer rating. Not bad. WR Andre Johnson has a league-leading 74 catches for 884 yards and four TDs and rookie TE Owen Daniels has five TD receptions. Rookie RB Wali Lundy, a former star at Holy Cross High School in Burlington County, leads the Texans in rushing with 404 yards and three TDs on 98 carries.

PENNINGTON ON HOT SEAT

QB Chad Pennington, who is in the worst slump of his career, may be playing for his future with the Jets over the next six games.

He's due a $2 million roster bonus on March 2 and the Jets must make a decision by then if he will remain the quarterback. Although his cap number is $6.9 million in 2007, he has a modest $1.9 base salary.

What's working in Pennington's favor is that coach Eric Mangini likes him and the Jets have no one to challenge him. Rookie Kellen Clemens is a year away and veteran Patrick Ramsey probably won't be with the team next season.

The question is: are the Jets prepared to hit the free-agent market this off-season and spend big for the quarterback. Stay tuned.

STORY LINE

The Jets are facing a must-win situation if they have any hopes of reaching the postseason. Their game against the Texans begins a string in which none of their final six games are against opponents with a winning record.

KEY MATCHUP

Jets LT D'Brickashaw Ferguson, taken fourth overall, vs. Texans DE Mario Williams, selected first overall. Ferguson has played well this season.

INJURIES

Jets: CB Andre Dyson (neck).

Texans: DE Mario Williams (foot), WR Andre Johnson (thigh) and DE Antwan Peek (knee

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Jets To Look Rebound at Home Versus Texans

Published: 11-21-06

By Jets PR Department

Article Permalink: http://www.newyorkjets.com/articles/jets-to-look-rebound-at-home-versus-texans

The New York Jets (5-5) face the Houston Texans (3-7) for only the third time in the history of the two franchises. However, the Meadowlands will not seem all that unfamiliar to the Texans; they will be the third team this season to play two games in the stadium, joining the Colts and Bears. In Week Nine, the Texans fell to the Giants 14-10.

Jets vs. Texans

The Jets have won both meetings against the Houston Texans including the only meeting between the two at the Meadowlands. In the 2004 season, the Texans traveled to New York for the first time. The Jets scored in every quarter and put the game out of reach late, scoring 16 points in the fourth quarter en route to a 29-7 victory. The Jets defense was also stellar, getting interceptions from safety Erik Coleman and cornerback David Barrett. Shaun Ellis and Dewayne Robertson led the team in tackles and helped the Jets hold the Texans to just 83 yards rushing.

Jets-Texans at a Glance

Record vs. Texans: 2-0

Record vs. Texans at home: 1-0

Last time vs. Texans (12/05/04): Jets 29, Texans 7

Read the Entire Game Release which Includes Connections, Player Notes, Statistical Information and much, much more.

Broadcast Information

Television: This week’s game will be broadcast to a regional audience by CBS and can be viewed in the Tri-State area on WCBS-2. Gus Johnson will handle the play-by-play duties and will be joined by analyst Steve Tasker. Victor Frank will produce the telecast.

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Jets Give Thanks to A Program that Keeps Giving

Published: 11-21-06

By John Beattie

Article Permalink: http://www.newyorkjets.com/articles/jets-give-thanks-to-a-program-that-keeps-giving

It was a chilly Tuesday morning in late November when New York Jets wide receiver Tim Dwight found himself in a relatively unusual situation. The Iowa native was crammed down a steep stairwell, ten steps beneath a busy side street in Brooklyn. The professional football veteran of nine seasons has always been able to adapt to new environments and make the most of any every opportunity, and today was no different.

Glazed with an unrelenting smile, Dwight was hauling in and handing off turkeys and fresh produce from four other devoted Jets teammates with one goal in mind: to help stop hunger.

“I would do this every day. If Eric (Mangini) didn’t have us in meetings for 50 hours a week, I would be out doing this,” said Dwight with a smile. “I think things like this are fantastic, contacting people is great. Thanksgiving is a time to sit back and be thankful for what you have. To see the people here – I wouldn’t say it was eye-opening, but it makes me feel good about what I’m doing and what I’ve done.”

In addition to delivering a tractor trailer load of fresh turkey, potatoes, apples and carrots to the Neighbors Together Soup Kitchen in the Brownsville section of Brooklyn, members of the Jets community were on hand serving those in need of a warm meal on a brisk autumn day.

Joining Dwight in this city-wide game plan to “tackle” hunger were linebackers Brad Kassell, Cody Spencer and Matt Chatham. Fullback James Hodgins not only devoted his time, his wife Stephanie and two sons Isaiah and Isaac were on hand as well, passing out warm meals and smiles to all those in attendance.

“This is the good way to do it,” said Chatham, a special teams co-captain who handed out very generous portions of turkey and gravy. “You look forward to this time of year and you love to see the smiles on their faces. It is a long, hard year for us and it’s even a harder year for a lot of these people, so it’s good.

“It’s tough just to keep serving and not eat,” joked Chatham. “We have to do our best to keep our hands out of the food.”

This gathering is just one of the many events in the Food Bank’s borough-wide campaign called “Thanksgiving for Five.” The mission is designed to distribute more than 10,500 turkeys to community food programs including food pantries and soup kitchens at a time where many New York families are struggling to put food on the table.

This holiday season, more than two million people in New York City alone are at risk of going hungry and at least half of those people turn to emergency food programs such as Neighbors Together.

“Hunger doesn’t discriminate, and you never know when it is going to strike,” said Carlos Rodriguez, Vice President of Agency Relations and Programs of Food Bank. “Bringing this type of public with the Jets participating actually brings a lot of public awareness to an issue that usually goes unheard. It’s very important for the food bank because it’s these three months when we do most of our fund raising.”

A recent report by the federal government indicated that hunger is on the rise in the Big Apple, even with the Food Bank distributing over 250,000 meals a day throughout 1,200 programs in the five boroughs. With that in mind, these five members of the Green and White were more than happy to help out such an important yet often overlooked cause.

“It’s really excellent; I think that their energy helps make a festive atmosphere,” said Ed Fowler, Executive Director of Neighbors Together. “We’re here every day, Monday through Saturday, 12 months a year, so this makes it really special, and people are really excited to have them here. It’s great to draw attention to the fact that there are so many programs like this out there.”

With the room packed of close to 350 patrons, Dwight’s sparkling character was able to maintain a consistent flow, as he was the first Jets player to greet the thankful guests.

“It was really neat. That was the first point of contact – in the food line,” Dwight said. “It was just nice to know that these people were going to get a nice, hot meal. You could tell how much they appreciated it. They just sat down and enjoyed the time.”

“Even when they are struggling, they sit there and have a good time and talk a little,” Kassell added. “They are really great people.”

When the line died down and the crowd dispersed, each player signed autographs, posed for photos and chatted with the exuberant visitors. While these five players knew they had accomplished an important task, the members of Food Bank, and the dedicated staff of Neighbors Together engage in such rewarding happiness nearly 365 days a year.

“We don’t turn folks away. Every member agency, every single one of the 1,200 programs, don’t turn people away,” Rodriguez said. “If you’re hungry, there’s food available for you, and if not at that particular location, than we’ll find one that does.”

Food Bank for New York City

Neighbors Together

[mbn007]

I really like the way Tom Rock writes. Good stuff.

Thanks, as always, Spermy. Great job you do here everyday.

[Sperm Edwards]

http://www.houstontexans.com/news/detail.php?PRKey=3126&section=N%20Latest%20News

Scouting the Jets

November 22, 2006

By Jeff Feyerer

HoustonTexans.com

After falling in the waning moments of their Week 11 game to the Buffalo Bills, the Houston Texans (3-7) will square off against another AFC East foe in Week 12, the surprising New York Jets (5-5). Following a disappointing 4-12 season with departed head coach Herman Edwards at the controls, the Jets look rejuvenated under new head coach and former New England assistant Eric Mangini. The first-time head coach has his squad playing tough, gritty football that may not translate to the most appealing statistical numbers, but instead is shown where it counts, the won-loss column.

The leader of the Jets, quarterback Chad Pennington, was thought to be done before the season even began with an injured shoulder, but he proved the doubters wrong by throwing for five touchdowns against one interception in New York’s first three games. In order for the Jets to be successful, Pennington does not need to do anything special. Managing the offense through an effective running game and relying on turnovers from the defense have served the Jets well thus far and will continue to be the blueprint for Mangini’s club. With all six of their remaining games against sub-.500 opponents, the Jets appear to be capable of an unprecedented run toward the postseason.

Offense

The Jets’ offense is not predicated on the big play, but instead relies on ball control and the sound decision making of their heady quarterback. Pennington, even before the shoulder injury, was never blessed with the strongest arm, instead focusing on accuracy and making the smart choices through the air. Over the last three games, Pennington has struggled with only one touchdown and five interceptions, but those games were against some of the best defenses in the league in Cleveland, New England and Chicago. Pennington has completed close to 62 percent of his passes this season and likes to spread the ball around the field to receivers, backs and tight ends. Although his stats may not reflect his importance to the team, the drop-off from Patrick Ramsey (more physically gifted) and rookie Kellen Clemens is severe mainly due to Pennington’s experience, savvy, pocket awareness and field vision.

When Pennington drops back to pass, he will have two-sure handed receivers to throw to in veteran Laveranues Coles and Jerricho Cotchery. Coles (5-11, 192) was considered a deep threat coming into the league out of Florida State, but with Pennington at the helm, the Jets focus is not on the big plays. What the Jets short-passing game does do is allow Coles (59 catches, 715 yards) to use his speed to make plays after the catch. Coles is very explosive with the ball in his hands and is unafraid to go over the middle to make a play for his team. Cotchery (6-0, 207), a fourth-round pick in 2004, is making a name for himself in his third year. A possession receiver who has plus toughness and blocking abilities, Cotchery (44 catches, 566 yards) is very similar to Pittsburgh’s Hines Ward. Although he may not have Ward’s speed and is still improving various nuances of his game, he is quick in space and his competitive streak is seen through the way he tries to get as many yards as possible after the catch. Tight end Chris Baker is a dependable target when Pennington goes over the middle.

With the Jets’ backfield missing Curtis Martin for the first time since 1997, Mangini has employed a three-man running back committee of Kevan Barlow, Cedric Houston and Leon Washington to carry the ball. None of the players may be the long-term solution for the Jets at the position, but each plays a role in the running game that is integral to its success. Barlow, acquired by the Jets right before the beginning of the season, never carried out the promise that he was thought to have had in San Francisco. Barlow has great measurables (6-1, 234), terrific hands, and enough speed to be a significant contributor, but many in San Francisco felt he didn’t work hard enough. This season he is averaging just 3.1 yards per carry, but has six touchdowns and has taken over for Houston as the short-yardage back. Houston’s lack of speed has gotten him lost in the shuffle with only 25 carries this season. The surprise for the Jets has been Washington. A rookie out of Florida State, the diminutive Washington (5-8, 202) has run through and around defenders this season for a team-high 454 yards and 4.2 yards per carry. His size and skill set conjure up images of another former Seminole back and current NFL player, Warrick Dunn.

After the offensive line suffered through a miserable 2005 season giving up 53 sacks and rushing for only 83 yards per game, the Jets decided to rebuild the foundation of the line through the 2006 NFL Draft. With the fourth pick, the Jets selected the highly-touted left tackle out of Virginia, D’Brickashaw Ferguson. Ferguson (6-6, 312) was considered to be a player that could come in, make an immediate impact and be the team’s cornerstone quarterback protector for a decade. After getting in Mangini’s doghouse early, Ferguson has rebounded to play well, and Pennington is being sacked at a much lower rate this season. Drawing even more rave reviews than Ferguson is fellow rookie first-round pick Nick Mangold. Coming out of Ohio State, Mangold had great big-game experience, toughness and leadership that has translated into instant success this season. Surrounded by veterans left guard Pete Kendall, right guard Brandon Moore and right tackle Anthony Clement, the Jets line have held their own and helped improve their running game from 31 st in 2005 to 15 th this season.

The Jets play a style that allows teams to blitz them without serious repercussions. While Pennington does possess the smarts and awareness to pick up a blitz and make the right decision with the ball, rarely are opposing teams going to get beat deep by the Jets. Pennington threw for at least 300 yards in the first two games of the season, but since then, he has exceeded over 200 yards passing only once. Stopping the run and not allowing the Jets to dominate time of possession will be integral to the Texans success.

Defense

Mangini’s success as a defensive assistant in New England was supposed to bring instant credibility to the Jets’ unit this season, but they have struggled more than anticipated ranking 20 th in points allowed and 29 th in yards allowed. Many of the struggles could be steeped in the transition to the 3-4 defense from the 4-3, but recent weeks have brought improvement allowing only 24 points total to New England and Chicago, two of the top-10 scoring offenses in the NFL.

On the face, the Jets seem to have three players along their defensive line that fit the scheme. End Shaun Ellis (6-5, 285) has enough size to play end, nose tackle Dewayne Robertson (6-1’, 317) has the strength to play inside and on the other end, Kimo von Oelhoffen was signed particularly for his experience in the 3-4 in Pittsburgh. But so far, they have looked mediocre at best allowing the 29 th most rushing yards in the league and close to 4.6 yards per carry. The defensive line in the 3-4 alignment is supposed to prevent the opposing offensive line from getting to the second level, thus allowing linebackers to make the tackles. There is no question the current starters on the line for the Jets have the talent to succeed, however they seem to be simply struggling in the change in responsibilities. Ellis, after double-digit sack seasons in 2003 and 2004, looks lost in the scheme because it has taken away his ability to attack the quarterback off the edge. Robertson is still learning, but does look like he is progressing at the age of only 25 and is on pace to easily surpass his career high in tackles. Von Oelhoffen on the other end looks like he’s showing his age and doesn’t look like nearly the same player he did on the Super Bowl Champion Steelers last season.

Like the defensive line, the linebackers for the Jets have not had the season they are capable of, but with the youth they possess at the position and after a year experience, they should be a force to reckon with for years to come. The star in the linebacking corps is third-year inside man Jonathan Vilma. Vilma has shown a knack for making plays all over the field by using his speed and delivering the big hit. As a rookie in 2004, Vilma was an instant playmaker and leading tackler for a Jets team that survived until the second weekend of the NFL playoffs. Last season, he made his first Pro Bowl and recorded an astounding 173 tackles. While he’s still on pace for close to 130 tackles this season, Vilma (6-1, 230) is undersized for the 3-4 scheme and is still getting used to playing more in space than sideline to sideline. Fellow inside linebacker Eric Barton, who was hurt for most of last season has the bulk to play in this defense and is a sound tackler, but is better laterally than taking on blocks in front of him. At one outside position is Bryan Thomas, a former defensive end and first round pick who seems to have rejuvenated his struggling career in the new defense as a rush linebacker. Thomas has already surpassed his career high in tackles with 54 and delivered three sacks. The other outside linebacker is Victor Hobson, a solid performer who is talented enough to defend the run and drop back in coverage.

The defensive backfield for the Jets has fared much better this season than the front seven. Led by young safeties Kerry Rhodes and Erik Coleman, the Jets have picked off 11 passes and are currently 16 th in pass defense, much better than their ranking against the run. Rhodes (6-3, 210) is tall, rangy and while he may not have the measurables of other prospects, he is simply a football player that goes out, plays hard, relies on his instincts and makes plays. This season, Rhodes has contributed 69 tackles, four sacks and two interceptions on his way to becoming one of the AFC’s best safeties in just his second season. Thought to be more of a special teams player after being drafted in 2004, Coleman performed admirably right away garnering 100 tackles and four interceptions in his first season followed by 121 tackles last season. The young free safety looks to team with Rhodes to make a formidable back wall against opposing offenses for years to come. At the cornerback position, the Jets are led by veteran Andre Dyson and accompanied by three other solid players that see almost equal playing time: David Barrett, Justin Miller and Drew Coleman. They don’t have the star power of Champ Bailey, but have found success this season none the less.

The Jets defense is much better than the numbers indicate and the various young playmakers that see playing time on the defense are progressing nicely as the season goes along. But with the struggles of the defensive front against the run this season, establishing the ground game should serve as the top priority not only to maintain possession of the ball, but to also open up the play-action game against the young Jets back seven. Last week, the Bears found instant success with both Thomas Jones and Cedric Benson running between the tackles, something the Texans should focus on this week.

Special Teams

The Texans better be careful this week when kicking away to the Jets as they possess arguably the best overall return game in the NFL. Returning kicks is speedy Justin Miller. Drafted in the first round in 2005 out of Clemson, Miller is still refining his coverage ability, but he has already exceeded expectations as a return man. Miller currently ranks second in the NFL with 28.9 yards per return (just behind Patriots’ rookie Laurence Maroney) and has as many kickoff returns for touchdowns, 2, as the rest of the league combined. On punt returns, Tim Dwight is averaging 11.2 yards per return, good enough for seventh in the NFL. Dwight has always been among the fastest and best punt returners in the league and age does not seem to be affecting him as much as others thought it was.

While the return game finds success this season, kicker Mike Nugent has struggled to find the consistency he had during his rookie season in 2005. Punter Ben Graham is in the middle of the pack in most punting statistical categories, but has excelled in one important area dropping 38.3% of his punts inside the opponents’ 20-yard line.

[Sperm Edwards]

http://jets.lohudblogs.com/2006/11/22/the-real-reason-the-buckeyes-won/

The real reason the Buckeyes won

November 22

Thank heavens Ohio State defeated Michigan because, as it was discovered today, that win was a lot more significant than previously imagined.

As has been reported, shaggy Ohio State alum Anthony Schlegel bet a haircut on the game with teammate B.J. Askew, a proud Wolverine. Today was the deadline for Askew for hold up his end of the bargain.

So it was no big shock when he walked into the locker room with what can best be described as a mushroom cut, bushy on top but shaved around the edges. He did have three stripes shaved into a V-shape going from the back of his neck up on both sides.

``M.C. Hammer,’’ Askew said, explaining his look. ``It looks good on me.’’

Truth be told, it didn’t look bad.

Then Askew revealed what would have happened if Michigan had won: Schlegel in a mohawk dyed blond, a la Bengals receiver Chad ``Ocho Cinco’’ Johnson.

That would have looked bad. Very bad.

Elsewhere, in real Jets news today, coach Eric Mangini admitted he has a problem with grammar. Monday, he said, ``Chad is the quarterback right now.’’ Today he said he has a problem with periods and what he should have said is, ``Chad is the quarterback, period.’’

Here’s what I think: Chad Pennington is the quarterback for the rest of the season because when given a chance to talk about impressions or progress backup Patrick Ramsey has made in practice, Mangini was lukewarm, at best. But I’m also not convinced Mangini didn’t deliberately slip in the, ``right now’’ part. If it was sent as a message, it was probably an effective one.

Meanwhile, Pennington said he’s been ``disconnected’’ from the recent public criticism of his play but acknowledged he was in a slump. However, he said he was excited about the challenge of playing his way out of it. He added significantly that nobody has had to see him play his way out of a slump before

[Sperm Edwards]

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=jc-notebook112106&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

AFC PLAYOFF PICTURE

Indianapolis' hopes for an undefeated season were ruined by Dallas last Sunday. Still, the Colts couldn't be much happier about the way things are shaping up for the AFC playoffs at this point.

After a weekend in which Baltimore and San Diego climbed within one game of Indy for the top spot in the AFC, the Colts should be hoping that the conference standings hold up over the final six games of the season. That's because the way things are shaping up, the Colts would have the No. 1 seed and could face one of two teams (Denver or New England) which they have already defeated this season in the second round of the playoffs. More important, the Colts wouldn't face the Chargers or Ravens – physical teams that could give them serious trouble – until the AFC championship, if at all.

That's the way things shape up with Baltimore currently holding the tiebreaker advantage over the Chargers in the battle for the AFC's No. 2 seed. While it's premature to consider, with the way that the remaining schedules break down, it's realistic. The following is a look at the nine teams in the AFC which are .500 or better with six games remaining.

Indianapolis Colts (9-1): The remaining opponents for the Colts have a combined record of 26-34, which is tied for the second-easiest schedule among the nine AFC playoff contenders. Furthermore, that series of opponents starts with Philadelphia (5-5) on Sunday night, the Eagles' first game following the season-ending loss of quarterback Donovan McNabb. Look for the Colts to roll into the playoffs with a 13-3 or 14-2 record and to keep the No. 1 seed in the conference.

San Diego Chargers (8-2): Their opponents are a combined 27-33 and they have the distinct advantage of playing four of their final six games at home. Barring a distinct reversal by the suddenly offense-aggressive Marty Schottenheimer, the Chargers will finish 12-4 and will beat out the Ravens for the No. 2 seed.

Baltimore Ravens (8-2): Like the Colts, Ravens' opponents are a combined 26-34. Some of those games (two against Pittsburgh) figure to be tough for the Ravens, who aren't the most explosive offensive team in the AFC, but do play with a sense of calm and intelligence. Look for the Ravens to finish 11-5 and be the No. 3 seed.

New England Patriots (7-3): The Patriots could throw a wrench into the situation as they face opponents with a combined 27-33 record. But they have to start beating quality teams starting this Sunday against Chicago as none of the squads they've beaten this season currently have a winning mark. The other problem for the Patriots is that all three of their losses (to the Broncos, Colts and Jets) are against conference teams, putting them behind in the tiebreaker race. Look for the Patriots to win the East at 11-5 minimum, but to also finish with the No. 4 seed in the playoffs.

Denver Broncos (7-3): Blowing a 17-point, second-half lead at home against San Diego was a huge confidence killer for the Broncos. Furthermore, the unraveling of quarterback Jake Plummer in the fourth quarter of that game was disheartening because it was so predictable. The worst part for the Broncos is that they face opponents who are a combined 32-28, featuring only one team (Arizona) with a losing record. The defense is there for the Broncos to still win the division, but it will be a struggle. Look for the Broncos to finish 11-5 with the top wild-card spot, which means a trip to New England in the first round.

Jacksonville Jaguars (6-4): It's hard to figure out what the Jaguars want to be. They can run on offense and play solid defense, but they have blown two games against Houston and another against Washington to put themselves in a tough spot. The remaining schedule is 33-27, but that is skewed by Indy's 9-1 mark. There are games against Buffalo, Miami and Tennessee, and the Jags can't afford to blow any of them. Look for a 10-6 finish, the final playoff spot and an ugly trip to either San Diego or Baltimore for their one playoff game.

Kansas City Chiefs (6-4): It's a brutal road ahead for the Chiefs, who face the roughest schedule at a combined 34-26, including AFC contenders Denver, Baltimore, San Diego and Jacksonville. If the Chiefs make the playoffs, they will have definitely earned it. Look for them to finish 9-7 and likely out of the playoffs.

New York Jets (5-5): The Jets have the most unique schedule down the stretch with no games against a team currently having a winning record. New York's remaining opponents are a combined 21-39, which is ridiculously bad by NFL standards. That said, the Jets are a really flawed team, having been outscored by 40 points this season and having been shut out twice. Still, they play hard and they don't make a lot of mistakes. Look for the Jets to go 9-7 and miss the playoffs after hanging around longer than anyone could have imagined.

Cincinnati Bengals (5-5): The schedule is tough, featuring a combined opponents' record of 33-27 and games against Baltimore, at Indianapolis and at Denver. There's also Pittsburgh in the season finale. The Bengals are also extraordinarily flawed on defense and the offense hasn't been good enough to cover it up most of the season. Look for a 7-9 finish and for them to be out of the playoffs with two weeks left in the season.

[Sperm Edwards]

http://blogs.trb.com/sports/football/jets/blog/2006/11/wideout_perspective.html

Wideout Perspective

By Tom Rock

Laveranues Coles was in a combative mood today, picking fights with reporters who asked about the recent troubles the passing game has experienced. At one point he basically denied that there was any problem. If Coles truly thinks that, then the “chemistry” problem between the quarterback and receivers goes deeper than previously thought. It’s obvious from just looking at the team and not introducing stats that the passing game is going through a slump. Pennington and Mangini have admitted so. Coles is not on that page, though. Perhaps he’s still in the denial phase of grief.

B.J. Askew came in with his new haircut, courtesy of Ohio State beating his Michigan team last weekend. Turns out his haircut bet with Buckeye Anthony Schlegel was that Askew would have to go M.C. Hammer if he lost, and sure enough, he did. Askew had the sides of his head buzzed tightly with three tiger stripes etched into the scalp. It actually didn’t look all that bad, just slightly outdated. Now, if Michigan had won, Schlegel would have been forced to get a mohawk and dye it blond like Chad Johnson. That might be the most compelling reason I can think of to advocate an Ohio State-Michigan rematch in the BCS Championship Game.

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, but not much conversation revolved around the holiday. A few players will have their families come into town. Some of the displaced coaches, players and staff are planning to get together later in the day, after practices and meetings, to share some turkey. They’ll probably be thankful, among other things, that their season still has meaning. A lot of other teams are just grinding out the rest of the schedule, but the Jets are in the thick of consideration for the playoffs. They'll be even more thankful if the Broncos beat the Chiefs.

Glauber's 0-2 in his last two visits to NY football games, and he might soon be as welcomed as Michael Richards at the Laugh Factory after starting the season on a hot streak. He'll be with the Jets on Sunday, and I think his luck will change for the better.

Happy Thanksgiving to all. I'll be here tomorrow and try to post a little something, but I doubt there'll me much interest in it.

[Sperm Edwards]

CP Ready to Rectify the Passing Game

Published: 11-22-06

By Eric Allen

Article Permalink: http://www.newyorkjets.com/articles/cp-ready-to-rectify-the-passing-game

The New York Jets' passing game has not fired on all cylinders in quite some time, but quarterback Chad Pennington remains upbeat about the future.

“I am actually excited,” Pennington said Wednesday. “It is a great opportunity for me; it’s a big challenge for me. It is kind of the first time anyone has seen me struggle like this in the passing game, so I am excited about taking on this challenge and rectifying things and getting our offense going in the right direction."

Instead of dwelling on any past ineffectiveness, Pennington sees development in a run game averaging 112.1 yards per game, solid pass protection from a young line, and an offense converting 42% of the time on third downs.

“I think we have grown in a lot of areas in our offense with our running game, with our pass protection, with some things that we are doing on third down – we are really good on third down conversions," he said. "We have some things we have been able to build upon. Now we just need to complete the cycle so to speak and get better on first and second down with our passing game and making better decisions, not giving our opponent opportunities for turnovers.”

Pennington has thrown 11 interceptions through 10 games including two costly picks last weekend. Laveranues Coles, who leads the team with 59 receptions and 715 yards, says Pennington will work his way through his recent struggles.

"The best thing any guy on this team can do to help him right now is be where you’re supposed to be when its time for the ball to come out," Coles said. "He will be okay. You can’t start overcompensating things; everybody else has to do their job first and a lot of things will happen."

The Jets are averaging 176.7 yards passing per game, a number which ranks 23rd in the league. But this weekend the Texans 25th ranked pass defense comes to the Meadowlands and Pennington should see some opportunities to make plays down the field.

“The one thing I try to be careful of is not to over-analyze it because we have experienced success,” Pennington said. “When you go through a lull or a slump so to speak in a particular aspect of your game, you tend to over-analyze things, so I’m not going to over-analyze it."

Interestingly, Pennington compared his situation to that of a good hitter in baseball and a quality marksman in basketball.

“It is just like any other professional sport. When a hitter is hot with his bat and then all of a sudden cools off or a shooter in basketball is hot with his field goal percentage and cools off," he said. "Sometimes you can’t put your finger on it. You just work through it."

Eric Mangini, the Jets first-year head coach, continues to praise Pennington for his work ethic and consistency.

"Chad, always in my experience, throughout this year been exactly the same win or lose," Mangini said. "He has the same work ethic, the same commitment, and all the qualities you look for in a quarterback. He is tough and he is resilient, and we are all going to go through things that are challenging and difficult. It is how you handle them and put them in the past and move forward, and Chad does a good job of that."

Six games remain for Pennington and the 5-5 Jets. Pennington feels good physically for the critical stretch run and he is emphasizing the mental game as the season turns from fall to winter.

“Mentally, we are getting to the end of the season, to the last six games of the season," he said. "We all as professional athletes fight that grind where we all have to fight through it and really just focus in on the details and make sure you are crisp. There is definitely a difference between the first part of the season and now, but that is what being as a pro is all about.”

For his part, Pennington says he has remained in his own vacuum. He is too focused to listen to the naysayer’s on the radio and the critics on television.

“I have been totally disconnected from it,” Pennington said. “I have been totally focused on what I can do. I understand people’s frustrations and the questions coming my way. What I have tried to do is do everything I can to work towards getting back to how we were playing earlier in the season within the passing game. To be honest with you, this is the first time people have seen this happen with me in my career as far as me struggling a little bit.”

[Sperm Edwards]

http://www.newyorkjets.com/news/articles/show_permalink/fantasy-final-week-twelve

Fantasy Final: Week Twelve

Sleeper of the Week

Chad Pennington, New York Jets: Pennington is an accurate, pocket passer who needs time to be effective. In the first two games of the season he threw for over 300 yards in each game, but since then Chad has only passed for more than 200 yards once. He has only been sacked 22 times this season, but he gets hit on most passing plays. As a result, he has thrown more interceptions than touchdowns and his rating hovers at 76.8 on the year. But he has a chance to get well against a secondary that has given up big play after big play. The Texans have given up 29 plays of 20+ yards and have just six sacks in their last three games, meaning Pennington will have time to read his progressions and complete passes. He is a sneaky start this week.