Despite an ugly two-game losing streak, the New York Jets still control their own destiny when it comes making the 2010 NFL playoffs. It will take a win in two of their three final games, starting this week in Pittsburgh where the Jets face the 10-3 Steelers.
Pittsburgh is probably the second-best team in the conference and as usual is led by a strong, physical defense. They are first in the NFL at defending the run, although are only ranked 23rd at defending the pass. Over the past four games, Pittsburgh has allowed an average of 9 points. The scariest stat when thinking about the Jets offense facing them is they have already racked up 39 sacks, 17 interceptions, and 24 forced fumbles.
On the other side of the ball, Ben Roethlisberger has been productive since returning in week 5, with 13 touchdowns to 5 interceptions. He is always a threat to run the ball and is one of the most difficult quarterbacks in the league to sack. Rashard Mendenhall is having a strong year running the football with 1,073 yards and 9 touchdowns. Mike Wallace is Pittsburgh's big play receiver and has 946 yards on only 46 receptions, along with 8 touchdowns. Hines Ward leads the team with 49 receptions and has 638 receiving yards. Tight end Heath Miller is expected to return after missing last week and is a threat in the middle of the field.
My initial thoughts on this match-up is despite Pittsburgh's ability to stop the run, the Jets still must lean on their ground attack, in particular Shonn Greene, to lead the way. It would be insane to drop Mark Sanchez back 44 times against this defense on the road. I think the Jets match-up well in terms of defending the Steelers offense. Darrelle Revis should be assigned to Mike Wallace, with Antonio Cromartie covering Hines Ward. The key will be preventing Roethlisberger from extending plays and not letting Heath Miller, Emmanuel Sanders, or Antawan Randle El kill them in the middle of the field.
This is an uphill battle for the Jets and it will likely take points from special teams or defense to pull the upset.
Here is a look at Pittsburgh's 2010 stats so far -