The New York Times And P.O. Look At The Broncos-Jets Game

Instead of doing a weekly preview for the Broncos game, I had the chance to ask John Woods a few questions about the Broncos-Jets match-up. Woods is a staff editor for The New York Times, and a contributor to the Times‘ football blog, The Fifth Down. To see my prediction for the game, check out The Fifth Down. Here are John’s answers to my questions:

1. If the Jets played the Broncos at the beginning of the season (when the
Broncos were 3-0), who would have won that game and why?

This is an interesting question, actually. The Jets have probably been
improving steadily all along, but it has only become apparent over the past
four weeks. I used to snicker about the Jets' problems, but they now appear
to be a stout division leader. One that is actually adept at ball control,
with an interior defense that can menace ball carriers and passers alike.
Never mind that Brett Favre has only one pick in his last three games, which
is probably the most significant Jets statistic.

As strong as the Broncos might have looked early in the season, their
defense seemed to be suspect. They gave up more than 1,200 yards in those
season-opening wins. So, a Jets-Broncos game in Week 4 would probably have
devolved into a shootout. I think you give it to the Broncos, though,
because for sure Favre would have had an interception taken to the house.


2. What's your prediction for Sunday's game?

This is a tricky game for the Jets, who have won five in a row. Three of
their past four were against tough A.F.C. opponents, so the Jets have to
have a lot of confidence. But I look at this game and I see two of the three
teams in the league to lose to the Raiders. If the Broncos remember how to
get serious, the Jets might be in for a long day. ...I say that if Favre
stays turnover-free, the Jets can't lose.

3. What similarities do you see between Jay Cutler and Brett Favre? 

They really are similar guys, by the numbers, anyway. I haven't watched any
Denver games this season, but Cutler seems like a younger, more dignified
Brett Favre. I mean, I don't know what Cutler's predilections are in the
area of blue jeans and crawdads, but in terms of passing, Favre is probably
more efficient. Cutler seems more mobile, though, and has a higher
yards-per-pass average. ...The Broncos' fade this season is surprising,
because Cutler seemed to cut the profile of a guy you'd want to keep around.
 

4. Do the Jets have a legitimate shot at winning the Super Bowl?

The A.F.C. seems wide open to me. I think the Jets have a legitimate shot at
getting to the Super Bowl. Winning it is a whole other kettle of fish. God
save us if they get that far and find the Giants waiting for them.