Scouting the Jets

Source: SD Tribune

In this era of pass-happy teams, the New York Jets are a throwback to the days when the formula for winning was running the ball and playing defense – two things these Jets do extremely well. They ranked No. 1 in the NFL in six major statistical categories – rushing yards; fewest total yards allowed, passing yards allowed, first downs allowed, third-down conversion percentage allowed and points allowed.

While the Chargers have scored at least 20 points in 22 consecutive games, just five teams scored more than 17 points against the Jets this season, none in the last seven games, when their opponents combined for just 61 points (8.7 per game). For the season, including Saturday’s playoff win over Cincinnati, the Jets gave up 14.7 points a game – or almost exactly half what the Chargers scored (28.4 average). Cornerback Darrelle Revis had six INTs and is the favorite to be named NFL Defensive Player of the Year.

New York’s offense ranked 20th in total yards and 17th in points, with Thomas Jones rushing for more than 1,400 yards and the rest of the team combining for almost that many. Rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez threw 20 INTs and ranked near the bottom of the league in most categories, but he was 12-of-15 in his playoff debut.

Last meeting

The teams played at Qualcomm Stadium on a Monday night in Week 3 of the 2008 season and the Chargers opened a 31-14 halftime lead en route to a 48-29 victory.

Series history

The Chargers also beat the Jets in New Jersey in 2005 and hold a 19-12-1 series advantage, including 12-7 in California. The Jets won three straight games at Qualcomm Stadium before the Chargers’ victory in 2008.

Playoff history

Few Chargers fans will forget the only postseason meeting between the teams. It happened after the 2004 season and the visiting Jets shocked the favored Chargers 20-17 in overtime. Chad Pennington threw two TD passes as the Jets took a 17-7 lead into the fourth quarter. The Chargers forced overtime on a TD pass by Drew Brees with 11 seconds left, but Nate Kaeding missed a 40-yard field goal in the overtime before Doug Brien converted a 28-yard field goal for the Jets after 14:55 of extra time.