Jets PredictionI happen to be one of the few people - perhaps the only person - who believes that if enough things go right, the Jets can take advantage of a relatively easy schedule and contend for a playoff spot.
That would require Chad Pennington to stay intact and at least regain his 2004 form, when he played very well against bad defenses; for one of the Jets running backs to step up; for the offensive line to quickly gain chemistry; for Shaun Ellis and DeWayne Robertson to improve significantly over last year's performance; for the three defensive linemen acquired in the last five days to contribute; and for Justin Miller to improve his play at cornerback. The Jets would also have to avoid injuries.
This is not impossible, but nor is it likely. The Jets offense shows signs that it will struggle during the early part of the season, and the defensive line is very thin.
Sunday's game against the Titans is a game that can be won. A strong performance can quickly raise player confidence, like the Jets opening day road rout in Bill Parcells' 1997 debut, which immediately erased memories of the Rich Kotite era.
I hope for an opening day victory and at least an 8-8 season, but expect a close, ugly loss, by a score of something like 20-16, and a 2006 record of 7-9.
posted on 9/05/2006
