The Jets Run Out of Fuel Against the Raiders

Once you’re a fan of the New York Jets you’re a “true” fan all the way, in good seasons and in (mostly) bad seasons.  Things were looking up for the Jets during the first two weeks of the NFL, but then this team of fast-moving jets apparently ran out of fuel when they took on the Oakland Raiders.  It doubly hurts to have California of all states defeat New York, but the momentum shifted on Sunday, September 25, 2011 as Oakland beat New York 34-24.

The game was definitely close and by the third quarter both teams tied.  The Jets faced a fourth and two at their competition’s 37-yard line.  However, rather than go for a long field goal or a punt, the Jets went for a dramatic victory–which arguably cost them the game.  Such an aggressive play allowed rookie cornerback Chimdi Chekwa to knock the ball down, even when facing the much larger Plaxico Burress, New York’s wide receiver.  Afterwards, the Oakland Raiders scored another touchdown with help from Denarius Moore.

This was a night for rookies, and Oakland looked competitive, despite having a number of injuries, including DeMarcus Van Dyke, and Michael Huff and Chris Johnson who had to leave the New York game early.  Much speculation has followed New York’s decision to play it rough rather than safe, a new attitude that was certainly not on display when playing against Dallas Cowboys earlier this month.  Perhaps the team’s momentum going into this game allowed head coach Rey Ryan to become overconfident.

Oakland’s Tommy Kelly thinks so, and directly blamed Rex Ryan.  “That’s Rex Ryan,” he said to the press, “That’s just how he does his thing.  That’s the personality of their team.  They want to enforce their presence on you.”  Yes, that does sound like New York, a historically outspoken metropolitan area.  Furthermore, you have to believe the Jets are itching to prove their skeptics wrong this season, and reclaim some glory for their historically pummeled team.

New York fans have no reason to give up now.  Perhaps a little humbling is just what the Jets need to keep focused for the rest of the season.  The real test will come in Week 4, when the Jets take on the championship-caliber New England Patriots.  This test comes at the opportune time, considering that New England showed some serious weaknesses this week, and actually lost to the Buffalo Bills.

What do you think?  Will New York redeem itself in Week 4?

Categorized in: NFL