The New York Jets will not participate in the 2012 NFL playoffs. The Jets lost to the Miami Dolphins, 19-17, on Sunday meaning there is no scenario in which the Jets (8-8) can make the playoffs.
Entering the day the Jets needed a victory, plus losses by Tennessee, Cincinnati and either Denver or Oakland to reach the playoffs.
Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez threw three interceptions on the day, completing 21-of-32 for 207 yards and two touchdowns.
Sanchez’ final interception came with the Jets trailing 16-10 and having moved to the Miami 10-yard line with 3:16 to play. Sanchez’ pass for Shonn Greene was intercepted by Miami linebacker Marvin Mitchell. The Dolphins turned the interception into a 44-yard field goal by Dan Carpenter, making the score 19-10 with 2:37 to play.
The Jets quickly mounted a touchdown drive, getting a 10-yard pass from Sanchez to Patrick Turner to move within 19-17 with 1:15 to play. Miami recovered the ensuing onside kick, however, sealing the Jets’ fate.
Even with a victory, however, the Jets would not have qualified for the playoffs. Tennesse defeat Houston, 23-22/