Cincinnati vs. New York Jets: NFL Playoff Preview

January 9, 2010

First round match-ups against wild-card teams are never easy, especially when that team has beaten you soundly the previous week. The Cincinnati Bengals are facing that situation Saturday afternoon as they face a rejuvenated New York Jets squad that has nothing to lose.

After starting the season 3-0 with rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez at the helm, the Jets proceeded to lose 6 of their next 7 games. Some fault Sanchez for making bad decisions, but that’s all par for the course with most first year QB’s. Instead of folding up shop and deciding to give up on their year, Rex Ryan has managed to push his players through the fire and into the playoffs.

Although many experts feel they don’t deserve to be in the playoffs due to Indianapolis and Cincinnati resting many of their players because they already had their playoff positions locked up, the Jets are focused and looking to make a run at an AFC title. This may sound like a crazy statement to most NFL enthusiasts, but they have established their run game and played incredible on defense over the past 6 weeks. Last time I checked, this is what winning teams do well. Expect a tremendous performance for New York Saturday as they face a Cincinnati team that seems as though they peaked too early this season.

The Bengals may be the most improved team over the past year. After a horrible 2008 season, they have come back to resemble the team that once looked to be perennially playoff bound. With Carson Palmer back at full strength after several key injuries, this squad has shown that they are capable of going to the Super Bowl. Star running back Cedric Benson has had a remarkable year. Although he missed a few games due to injury, he has still managed to rack up 1251 yards rushing with 6 touchdowns in what have been his best year in the league. Without T.J. Houshmandzedah the Bengals receiving corp has stepped up behind the leadership of Chad Ochocinco. Chad caught 72 passes for 1047 yards this season with 9 touchdowns, and has been helpful in the development of the rest of Cincy’s receivers. The main reason for Cincinnati’s success this year is due to their outstanding defense. After finishing towards the bottom of the pack in total defense in 2008 they have seamlessly solidified their “D” with several key additions.

This game looks to be a battle of field position as neither team has a dynamic offense, but both rank in the top-10 of total defense. Expect a low scoring affair that comes down to the wire.

Written by Cover The Number · Filed Under NFL

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