Sports Then and Now

Despite this sack by Gerald Warren, Mark Sanchez and the Jets got the best of the Patriots the first time around.

With the NFL regular season approaching a crucial stage, the current leaders of the AFC conference, the New York Jets, are about to face a major test to their credibility as post-season contenders as they prepare to meet the New England Patriots.

The Patriots are currently snapping at their heels in the AFC East and both teams share a 9-2 record so far this season, so the Jets know that they need to overcome their division rivals when they meet on December 6th if they want to go all the way and the Super Bowl 2011 betting odds reflect this.

However, with the New England Patriots’ offence starting to put in some slick performances, the Jets know that the key to beating the Patriots will surely be shutting down Tom Brady. With the Jets well aware that when Brady gets into his rhythm he is almost entirely unplayable, they know that they will need to get into his head if they are to shut him down.

Although the NFL rules clearly punish any unnecessary roughing, the fact remains that teams are still prepared to put in some big hits at the cost of penalties if they can leave an opposition quarterback rushing their throws and making mistake after mistake. With the Jets clearly stating that they are looking to put in big hits intended to knock Brady out of his rhythm, it will be interesting to see how the officials react to any early shoves or pushes towards Brady, a man who has rarely been knocked out of his stride. If the Jets can do that, then they will no doubt be many people’s 2011 Super Bowl predictions.

As the season continues to speed towards its conclusion, expect the NFL to produce yet more fireworks and drama as the importance of games continues to increase.