When the Jets are on defense...
200.6 passing yards allowed per game - 6th in the NFL
90.9 rushing yards allowed per game - 3rd in the NFL
Defensive Line - You aren't going to get much, if any, pressure from this unit. However, they are stout against the run. Mike DeVito, Sione Pouha, and Shaun Ellis need a particularly strong effort this week since the Jets likely won't be stacking the box behind them very often. It would be nice if one these guys can finally get off a block.
Linebackers - I am not sure how much playing time this group is going to log. Obviously, David Harris will lead the way at inside linebacker but I wouldn't be surprised to see Bart Scott and Bryan Thomas taken off the field frequently for extra defensive backs. Calvin Pace and Jason Taylor are considered the Jets top two pass rushers so any time they feel like putting pressure on the quarterback would be good.
Secondary - All hands on deck. The Patriots have no shortage of weapons in the passing game, which means everybody from Darrelle Revis to Marquice Cole needs a big game. BrodneyPool and Eric Smithare bothcoming off strong games and need to be ready to be consistently attacked with New England's tight ends. The Jets will also rely on defensive backs like James Ihedigbo, Drew Coleman (if he plays), Dwight Lowery, and Kyle Wilson to get pressure on the quarterback off the edge.
When the Patriots are on defense...
258.5 passing yards allowed per game - 30th in the NFL
108.0 rushing yards allowed per game - 11th in the NFL
Defensive Line - Vince Wilfork leads the charge in the middle and a huge factor in this game will be how good of a job the Jets offensive line does controlling him, allowing them to run the football. This unit doesn't get a ton of pressure on the quarterback.
Linebackers - Largely a collection of no-names outside of Jerod Mayo, this unit has still put together a solid year. Rookie Brandon Spikes is returning from a four game suspensionand it remains to be seen how many reps he receives. The Jets should be able to run the football on New England's front seven, even with Damien Woody out of the line-up.
Secondary - Rookie corner Devin McCourtyhas put together a very good year and so has safety Pat Chung. However, the Jets will have opportunities to attack down the field with their receivers. If Santonio Holmes or Braylon Edwards can get Kyle Arrington one on one, let it fly Sanchez.
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Advantage - Jets -The one chink in the armour of the supposed flawless Patriots ia their defense is young and overall fairly average. The Jets must establish the running game early to control the clock to open up the play action passing down the field.