To the genie in the bottle, I ask for 3 wishes: No More Injuries, A Division Win, and a Solid Playoff Run !
Tuesday, September 20, 2005
Christina Rooting For Gang Green
To the genie in the bottle, I ask for 3 wishes: No More Injuries, A Division Win, and a Solid Playoff Run !
Monday, September 19, 2005
Remember The Helicopter !
After beating the Dolphins, ya have to remember one of the great NFL Hits of all time! Ain't it pretty!
Jets / Dolphins: Birdman's Analysis
Finally a victory. I've been waiting for one of those since the middle of last January.
Here are some of my observations:
1. I wanted to vomit on the first play when the ball was fumbled.
2. First and goal from the 6 and we don't score. That's unacceptable however:
a. Chrebet catches the ball, slips down, his knee touches, the ball crosses the goal-line, and then he gets touched. They call that NO TD. During the post game on the radio, they even believed it was a TD.
b. Curtis Martis, the best non-fumbling ration in NFL history, runs up the middle, fumbles the ball as it gets knocked out of his hands, hits a Dolphin defender, and then goes into Sowell's hands for what looked like a touchdown. Unfortunately, the rule states that only the fumbler could have recovered that ball for a touchdown. The post game hosts were confused by this rule as well.
3. Chad lofting balls deep which was showing a vertical offense instead of a Hacket Horizontal offense. However, the problem was that many times, the receiver had to wait for the ball instead of Chad leading the ball.
4. Chrebet made a nice catch with Pennington throwing to a spot, Chrebet turning, and having the ball right in his hands.
5. John Abraham won back is starting job forcing a fumble, having a sack, and being the only one on defense to get some pressure on the quarterback.
6. David Barrett hauls in the game clinching interception to help make up for him getting torched all last weekend.
7. The OL didn't give up any sacks to Jason Taylor.
8. There were a few penalitites but we did NOT turn over the ball.
9. Ty Law dropped an interception right off his chest. He needs to catch those.
10. Our punter, Graham, is going to be a major weapon this year.
11. Coles is back. He redeemed himself with some catches and a nice TD after dropping two sure TDs last week.
12. I'd like to see Jolley get more involved in the offense.
13. Nugent's kickoffs were pretty weak but gotta love him booting his first career Field Goal to give us a bit more of a cushion.
14. We rebounded from the loss. We won a home game. We won a divisional game.
15. Week #1: Dolphins, Patriots, & Bills win while Jets lose. Week #2: Dolphins, Patriots, & Bills lose while Jets win. Can you say "FIRST PLACE !!!"
Sunday, September 18, 2005
Friday, September 16, 2005
Classic Jets / Dolphins Game #2
JETS vs. DOLPHINS, September 21, 1986
I was only 16 years old when I attended this game so I don't remember all the details as vividly as the Monday Night Miracle but until that game, this one had been the greatest game of all time (not counting the Super Bowl III win).
This was a classic shoot-out between Ken O'Brien and Dan Marino. There was 93 passes thrown between both quarterbacks. Marino threw for 6 touchdowns while O'Brien threw for 4. There was 884 yards (then an NFL record) combined passing yards between both quarterbacks. There was 13 total touchdowns.
The day had seven lead changes but this game belonged to Wesley Walker. Blind in one eye, he had the game of his life catching 6 balls for 194 yards and 4 touchdowns.
The game was back and fourth. Wesley fumbles a catch at the Jets 27 yard line with under 5 minutes remaining. The Jets were then unable to stop Miami's offense as they scored the go-ahead touchdown with 2:56 left on the clock. I remember sweating in the seats thinking we still had a chance to tie the game as the offenses were dominating the game.
I don't remember what happened next. I believe we went three and out and then stopped the Dolphins as well getting the ball on our 20 with 1:04 remaining in the game. We had 80 yards to go to tie up the game. Things were NOT looking bright especially since we did not have ANY timeouts left.
O'Brien didn't care leading the hurry-up offense to the 21 yard line with time ticking away. This was the end. The had come down to the last play. O'Brien goes back to pass, throws a high line drive down the middle of the field, Walker snags it. TOUCHDOWN. Extra Point. TIE GAME. YES ! We were going bananas. There was NO time left on the clock and the game was tied at 45.
I remember the kick off to us as we won the coin toss. We actually fumbled it and they had said we recovered it. Just to make sure, we hurried to the line to get a play off.
A few plays later, approx. 2:35 into Overtime, O'Brien goes back to pass, throws a 43-yard bomb to Wesley Walker. TOUCHDOWN. JETS WIN IN OT. What a game !
Classic Jets / Dolphins Game #1
JETS vs. DOLPHINS, October 23, 2000
It was a match-up of two 5-1 teams - Jets vs. Dolphins in the meadowlands on Monday Night Football. Things were looking bleak for the New York Jets. The Dolphins Lamar Smith scored with 12 seconds remaining in the quarter giving the Fish a commanding 30-7 lead. At that moment, Fielder walked off the field and went over to Jason Taylor to tell him the game was over. Half of the crowd left as it started getting late and the game was just ugly with the Jets not doing a thing right. The clock struck midnight and then it all started changing.
For some reason we stayed and said, "If we don't score on this drive, we are leaving." Well, we didn't leave and things started getting pretty.
Before we know it, Vinny came out in the 4th quarter to lead the Jets to a TD capped off by a Vinny to Laveraneus Coles 30 yard touchdown. All of a sudden, with almost a full quarter to go, we were down 16 points (that's TWO scores with a 2-pt conversion).
The defense then held with the Jets stopping the run and pressuring the quarterback. Four minutes later, we had the ball. Vinny led the time back down the field and found Jermaine Wiggins for a 1 yard score.. We went for 2 points but were not successful and were now down 10 points.
Before I could even realize what was happening, strong D got us the ball back and John Hall booted a field goal with 5:43 remaining in the game to cut the score to 30 to 23. Down now only 7 points with just under 6 minutes to go.
What was even crazier was that fans were being let back into the game. Security was breaking the rules and letting people back through the turnstile.
Could we cap off this miracle 4th quarter? My heart was beating faster that a chef beats eggs. Another strong showing by the defense and the Dolphins were forced to punt. Vinny walked us right down the field again, this time hitting Wayne Chrebet for a 24 yard touchdown to tie the game. However, there was still 3:55 remaining and the way this quarter was going, anything could happen...and it did. But, it didn't stop us from going berserk in the stands when the score was tied. I was hugging everyone in my section, high fives, confetti, etc... It was madness.
Then, depression set in. On the 2nd play of the Dolphin's drive, Jay hit Leslie Shepherd for a 46 yard touchdown to now put the Dolphins back up by 7. The stands got quiet again. Would it be possible to drive down the field again?
With time now a major factor, Vinny started working some magic again using Richie Anderson as a weapon but the time kept on ticking as we got to the red zone with no time-outs remaining. We were on the four yard line, it was 4th & 1, and there was around a minute to go and Vinny connects with Richie Anderson for a 2 yard pickup. FIRST DOWN !
After an unsuccessful first down play, It all came down to this. Jets were on the Miami 3 yard line (in front my end zone where the entire 4th quarter was) and we were 3 yards away from a Touchdown. The crowd was roaring. The stadium was rocking. And the Jets pulled out a play for all ages. Jumbo Elliot reported in as an eligible receiver.
Vinny called for the ball, the receivers went out, including a Wide Open Jumbo Elliot. Testervede tossed him the ball. It felt like the ball was in the air for minutes. Jumbo bobbled it and some how managed to get his hand under the ball. TOUCHDOWN ! We then had to sweat out an extra point by John hall which he hit. Jets tie up the game at 37 a piece with only 42 seconds remaining.
The fun was far from over. Fieldler was driving the Dolphins into field goal range when Marcus Coleman intercepted the ball and started running the ball back the other way. Jets Ball, well, only for a few seconds, because Coleman fumbled the ball on the interception return. Classic example of Hero to Goat. But, if you believe in Miracles, as Fiedler started driving back down the field, Marcus Coleman redeemed himself by picking off another ball.
Vinny drives us to set up a 40 yard field goal. The crowd is as loud as I've ever heard it and John Hall boots a 40 yard field goal. The Monday Night Miracle was complete. At almost 2:00 in the morning, the Jets accomplished the impossible, a 40-37 OT victory after scoring a team record 30 fourth-quarter points while overcoming a 23 point deficit. That in turn, tied the 2nd largest comeback in NFL history for a club trailing after 3 quarters. Vinny because the 3rd player in NFL history to throw 4 fourth quarter touchdowns. Vinny's 4th quarter numbers were: 18 of 26 for 235 yards and 4 TDs.
It was a night where you got home at 4:00 am and had to find some highlights of the game before attempting to go to bed for a few hours before work.
Thursday, September 15, 2005
"How The Jets Win" By H. Edwards
It was Philosophy 101, with Edwards delivering a fiery lecture entitled, "How The Jets Win!"
Using a projector in the team meeting, Edwards displayed his keys to victory:
- Smart/fast/physical.
- Run the ball/stop the run.
- Protect the ball/take it away.
- Solid special teams/no foolish fouls.
I'm NO Head Coach in the NFL but Herm...DUH !
Wednesday, September 14, 2005
Thank You Note From The Edwards Family
I sent Herman some baby glasses for his new daughter and this is the thank you note I received from his wife.
Chad On Red Alert
We have moved from Orange Status to a Red Alert. If Chad can handle snaps this weekend, Red Alert status will be lowered.
Tuesday, September 13, 2005
Monday, September 12, 2005
Game #1: Classic Lines By Local Writers
NEW YORK TIMES:
The connection at Arrowhead Stadium between center Kevin Mawae and quarterback Chad Pennington couldn't have been any more disjointed if they had been relying on cellphones instead of snap counts.
THE COURIER NEWS:
Stick-em, super glue, masking tape, rubber cement, or a sewing kit all would have been adequate remedies for Pennington's sudden, inexplicable inability to hold on to the football. How many times was he going to drop it? Four? Five? By the time Pennington left the game in the fourth quarter, he was charged with six fumbles.
NEW YORK POST:
This was supposed to be a humdinger of an offense under new coordinator Mike Heimerdinger, aka The Messiah. Bumdinger is more like it.
The shotgun? It blasted Pennington right between the eyes. That sound you hear is Paul Hackett cackling.
Apparently the boys forgot to pack their swagger in their suitcases,
The good news: Jay Fiedler (the seventh Jet fumble) and the Jets dominated Garbage Time.
The Jets were so sloppy, inept and, quite frankly, embarrassing at times in their 27-7 loss to the Chiefs yesterday at Arrowhead Stadium, it left you wondering if they'll manage to win a single game before this season of promise is over.
They looked as far from the team so many thought would make a run at the Patriots' stranglehold of power in the AFC East as they used to look from being a contender at all during the Rich Kotite era.
NY DAILY NEWS:
Jonathan Vilma walked to the team bus late yesterday with a going-away present from the Jets' 27-7 loss to the Chiefs.
Two presents, actually - an ice pack and a swollen upper lip. The latter came from a teammate's fist.
Let us count their sins: There were seven fumbles, three turnovers, six dropped passes, eight penalties and a blocked field-goal attempt in which rookie kicker Mike Nugent slipped on an imaginary banana peel.
The Jets were so inept that they turned the most fundamental play in football - the center's snap to the quarterback - into an ongoing folly.
Maybe John Abraham was on to something last week when he showed off a new baseball cap that includes the words, "Over rated." Abraham, who bought it to mock his critics, should return to his local shopping mall, pick up another 44 caps and pass them out to his teammates. We'll call them dunce caps. This morning, the Jets have to be considered one of the most overrated teams in the NFL.
But the 27-7 whipping Kansas City put on the Jets yesterday was hideous. It was the Elephant Man of losses.
NJ STAR LEDGER:
The Jets were awful in all phases of the game, starting with the basics. They couldn't tackle, couldn't catch perfectly thrown passes or hit wide-open receivers, couldn't kick a short field goal, couldn't protect the quarterback, couldn't run the ball and couldn't score, until the Chiefs' scrubs were in the game.
Laveranues Coles completed the offensive stink-fecta, dropping two certain touchdown passes.
NY NEWS DAY:
Somewhere in Tampa, a Buccaneers offensive assistant who goes by the name of Hackett must be chuckling to himself. As bad as things got during Hackett's four-year run with the Jets, it was almost never this bad.
As Bill Parcells might say when seeing something like this, Pennington looked like a ball in tall grass. Lost.
The connection at Arrowhead Stadium between center Kevin Mawae and quarterback Chad Pennington couldn't have been any more disjointed if they had been relying on cellphones instead of snap counts.
THE COURIER NEWS:
Stick-em, super glue, masking tape, rubber cement, or a sewing kit all would have been adequate remedies for Pennington's sudden, inexplicable inability to hold on to the football. How many times was he going to drop it? Four? Five? By the time Pennington left the game in the fourth quarter, he was charged with six fumbles.
NEW YORK POST:
This was supposed to be a humdinger of an offense under new coordinator Mike Heimerdinger, aka The Messiah. Bumdinger is more like it.
The shotgun? It blasted Pennington right between the eyes. That sound you hear is Paul Hackett cackling.
Apparently the boys forgot to pack their swagger in their suitcases,
The good news: Jay Fiedler (the seventh Jet fumble) and the Jets dominated Garbage Time.
The Jets were so sloppy, inept and, quite frankly, embarrassing at times in their 27-7 loss to the Chiefs yesterday at Arrowhead Stadium, it left you wondering if they'll manage to win a single game before this season of promise is over.
They looked as far from the team so many thought would make a run at the Patriots' stranglehold of power in the AFC East as they used to look from being a contender at all during the Rich Kotite era.
NY DAILY NEWS:
Jonathan Vilma walked to the team bus late yesterday with a going-away present from the Jets' 27-7 loss to the Chiefs.
Two presents, actually - an ice pack and a swollen upper lip. The latter came from a teammate's fist.
Let us count their sins: There were seven fumbles, three turnovers, six dropped passes, eight penalties and a blocked field-goal attempt in which rookie kicker Mike Nugent slipped on an imaginary banana peel.
The Jets were so inept that they turned the most fundamental play in football - the center's snap to the quarterback - into an ongoing folly.
Maybe John Abraham was on to something last week when he showed off a new baseball cap that includes the words, "Over rated." Abraham, who bought it to mock his critics, should return to his local shopping mall, pick up another 44 caps and pass them out to his teammates. We'll call them dunce caps. This morning, the Jets have to be considered one of the most overrated teams in the NFL.
But the 27-7 whipping Kansas City put on the Jets yesterday was hideous. It was the Elephant Man of losses.
NJ STAR LEDGER:
The Jets were awful in all phases of the game, starting with the basics. They couldn't tackle, couldn't catch perfectly thrown passes or hit wide-open receivers, couldn't kick a short field goal, couldn't protect the quarterback, couldn't run the ball and couldn't score, until the Chiefs' scrubs were in the game.
Laveranues Coles completed the offensive stink-fecta, dropping two certain touchdown passes.
NY NEWS DAY:
Somewhere in Tampa, a Buccaneers offensive assistant who goes by the name of Hackett must be chuckling to himself. As bad as things got during Hackett's four-year run with the Jets, it was almost never this bad.
As Bill Parcells might say when seeing something like this, Pennington looked like a ball in tall grass. Lost.
Sunday, September 11, 2005
Super Bowl Is In The Numbers
This year's football season is 2005.
The last Jets Super Bowl season was 1968.
The difference is 37 years.
Since moving to the Meadowlands, we sit in Row 31.
37 + 31 = 68 which is the year we won the Super Bowl.
We have seats 13, 14, 15, 16, & 17.
Add these up and you get 75. We have 5 seats so 75 less 5 is 70. '70 is the year I was born and still waiting for a Championship.
Now add the 68 with the 70 and you get 138.
My baby's (future Jets fan) due date is the is January (1) X Day (14) = 14.
Subtract 138 - 14 = 124
Now, I was born in 1970 less 1968 is 2 years.
So, take 124 less 2 = 122.
1/22 this year is the date that teams play in the championship game for the right to go to the Super Bowl.
From this game, you can add 14 (my baby's due date) and that brings you to 2/5...The Super Bowl !
Based on the numbers, the JETS may end the year as World Champions!
The last Jets Super Bowl season was 1968.
The difference is 37 years.
Since moving to the Meadowlands, we sit in Row 31.
37 + 31 = 68 which is the year we won the Super Bowl.
We have seats 13, 14, 15, 16, & 17.
Add these up and you get 75. We have 5 seats so 75 less 5 is 70. '70 is the year I was born and still waiting for a Championship.
Now add the 68 with the 70 and you get 138.
My baby's (future Jets fan) due date is the is January (1) X Day (14) = 14.
Subtract 138 - 14 = 124
Now, I was born in 1970 less 1968 is 2 years.
So, take 124 less 2 = 122.
1/22 this year is the date that teams play in the championship game for the right to go to the Super Bowl.
From this game, you can add 14 (my baby's due date) and that brings you to 2/5...The Super Bowl !
Based on the numbers, the JETS may end the year as World Champions!
30 Reasons Jets Win The Bowl !
The season has so much promise after a crushing defeat in Pittsburgh last year to end the dream. However, a new season brings new hope. Here are 30 reasons why the Jets should win the Super Bowl this year:
1. Cause Vilma Says So !
2. 7 second half shut-outs last year in the regular season with basically the same defense this year.
3. ZZ Top said it best, "You've got the legs..." Twenty of the 22 selections in the Jets’ previous three drafts are still on the roster.
4. Wayne is back. Our "Rudy" returns for his 11th year. (Also, Chrebet Crunch was a much better cereal than Flutie Flakes.)
5. The first time the franchise opened the season at Kansas City, the year was 1968 and the Jets were headed to their first and only Super Bowl appearance.
6. We can put "Coles" back on our tailgate fires.
7. The ghost of Leon Hess is still saying "Win Now."
8. There is NO Keyshawn Johnson in sight !
9. Fans can focus on cheering for the team instead of worrying about tons of traffic and loss of tailgating from an Olympic Stadium in New York City.
10. Since this is not an election year, there will not be any hanging "Chads" meaning Mr. Pennington's shoulder will be 100% by opening day.
11. We have a new kicker in Nugent that can hopefully make that FG to get us to the Championship Game.
12. On the media room wall in Weeb Ewbank Hall is a larger than life decal of the Vince Lombardi Trophi to motivate the players plus the Super Bowl III trophy sits incased in the locker room.
13. Who has the reigning NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (Jonathan Vilma) and the NFL's Rushing Title Winner (Curtis Martin) !
14. N.M.H. -- No More Hackett !
15. There are now much more fans watching "Generation Jets."
16. Players hopefully learned their lesson from Eric Barton's bonehead play (late hit) that would have been worse than the Gastineau late hit many years earlier.
17. Hopefully Herman learned that in the playoffs, if you have available downs, try and get closer to make the kick easier.
18. A focus on the Jets kicked off NFL Network's Inside Training Camp show.
19. The team is Jolly that we got Jolley. Hopefully he'll erase memories of our last two "Can't Catch" tight ends - Brady & Becht.
20. Dick Curl, our clock management "guru" now has a year of experience under his belt. It can't get worse!
21. Patriots lost some players and coaches, Dolphins have Ricky "I Quit To Smoke Pot" Williams back, and Drew Bledsoe doesn't scare the Gang Green.
22. Playoffs 3 of last 4 years brings this young team the hunger and experience it needs to get over that next hurdle.
23. Memories of Bubby Brister, Ray Lucas, and Rick Mirer disappear with Jay Fiedler now as our solid backup.
24. We have a Herm and a Heimerdinger. Add that with a Henderson and ya got H.H.H. - Triple Strength Preperation H !
25. We have a guy that plays "So Well" in Jerald Sowell.
26. We have Big MAC as offensive linemen - (M) Mawae, (A) Adrian (Jones), (C) Cavka (Marko) -- Okay...that was really pushing it.
27. Better than having a "bad win" is having a "Goodwin" (Jonathan).
28. A potential pro-bowler and he's got defense in his name -- D-Wayne (Robertson)
29. We are gonna finally use "The Shotgun" on offense !
30. The Law (Ty) is on our side this year.
1. Cause Vilma Says So !
2. 7 second half shut-outs last year in the regular season with basically the same defense this year.
3. ZZ Top said it best, "You've got the legs..." Twenty of the 22 selections in the Jets’ previous three drafts are still on the roster.
4. Wayne is back. Our "Rudy" returns for his 11th year. (Also, Chrebet Crunch was a much better cereal than Flutie Flakes.)
5. The first time the franchise opened the season at Kansas City, the year was 1968 and the Jets were headed to their first and only Super Bowl appearance.
6. We can put "Coles" back on our tailgate fires.
7. The ghost of Leon Hess is still saying "Win Now."
8. There is NO Keyshawn Johnson in sight !
9. Fans can focus on cheering for the team instead of worrying about tons of traffic and loss of tailgating from an Olympic Stadium in New York City.
10. Since this is not an election year, there will not be any hanging "Chads" meaning Mr. Pennington's shoulder will be 100% by opening day.
11. We have a new kicker in Nugent that can hopefully make that FG to get us to the Championship Game.
12. On the media room wall in Weeb Ewbank Hall is a larger than life decal of the Vince Lombardi Trophi to motivate the players plus the Super Bowl III trophy sits incased in the locker room.
13. Who has the reigning NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (Jonathan Vilma) and the NFL's Rushing Title Winner (Curtis Martin) !
14. N.M.H. -- No More Hackett !
15. There are now much more fans watching "Generation Jets."
16. Players hopefully learned their lesson from Eric Barton's bonehead play (late hit) that would have been worse than the Gastineau late hit many years earlier.
17. Hopefully Herman learned that in the playoffs, if you have available downs, try and get closer to make the kick easier.
18. A focus on the Jets kicked off NFL Network's Inside Training Camp show.
19. The team is Jolly that we got Jolley. Hopefully he'll erase memories of our last two "Can't Catch" tight ends - Brady & Becht.
20. Dick Curl, our clock management "guru" now has a year of experience under his belt. It can't get worse!
21. Patriots lost some players and coaches, Dolphins have Ricky "I Quit To Smoke Pot" Williams back, and Drew Bledsoe doesn't scare the Gang Green.
22. Playoffs 3 of last 4 years brings this young team the hunger and experience it needs to get over that next hurdle.
23. Memories of Bubby Brister, Ray Lucas, and Rick Mirer disappear with Jay Fiedler now as our solid backup.
24. We have a Herm and a Heimerdinger. Add that with a Henderson and ya got H.H.H. - Triple Strength Preperation H !
25. We have a guy that plays "So Well" in Jerald Sowell.
26. We have Big MAC as offensive linemen - (M) Mawae, (A) Adrian (Jones), (C) Cavka (Marko) -- Okay...that was really pushing it.
27. Better than having a "bad win" is having a "Goodwin" (Jonathan).
28. A potential pro-bowler and he's got defense in his name -- D-Wayne (Robertson)
29. We are gonna finally use "The Shotgun" on offense !
30. The Law (Ty) is on our side this year.
Jets: Erase The Ghosts !
Before I can get pumped on this coming season, I have to reflect on the hard times that the Jets have gone through in the past years. These are the ghosts of Jets Past.
"MISSED" That's what the New York headlines printed last season after losing to the Steelers which should have vaulted the team to the Championship Game to face the Patriots. The "past" is over as we've been in the playoffs 3 of 4 years.
But how has the team changed? Parcells started it with "buying the groceries" but Bradway and Edwards took it from there. Charley Winner, Ken Shipp, Lou Holtz, Mike Holovak, Walt Michaels, Joe Walton, Bruce Coslet, Pete Carroll, and Rich Kotite couldn't do it.
I've been watching this team since 1970 (35 years -- my entire life) and the Jets are on their way. Something special is happening and you can see it in their eyes. This team is hungry. The recent success this team has had erased the demons of the past. It makes us forget about all the bad times.
So, before getting this season underway, let's forget about all the QBs that couldn't win the big games -- Al Woodall, Richard Todd, Matt Robinson, Pat Ryan, Ken O'Brien, Tony Eason, Browing Nagle, Boomer Esiason, Bubby Brtister, Frank Reich, Neil O'Donnell, Jack Traduau, Glenn Foley, and Qunicy Carter.
Let's forget about Richard Todd throwing a few times to A.J. Duhe in the Mud Bowl.
Let's forget one of those 24 second drives by Marino to win a game in the Orange Bowl.
Let's forget that 1-15 season (and the 3 - 13 season).
Let's forget about Mark Gastineau's late hit on 3rd and 10 that prolonged the Brown's drive in the divisional playoff game.
Let's forget about Parcells' decision to for trick plays with Ray Lucas and Leon Johnson's poor quarterback impressions in the final game vs. Detroit.
Let's forget about that horrible injury to Dennis Byrd.
Let's forget about Dan Marino's fake spike play and the rest of the season when the team quit on Pete Carroll.
Let's forget about the infamous Paul McGuire prediction that the Jets wouldn't win another football game the rest of the year after starting 10-1 and he was right.
And let's forget that infamous Bubby Brister flea-flicker play.
Let's forget about the Blair Thomas' fumble in that Monday Night Football debacle vs. the Bears.
And let's forget about Eric Allen's interception return in a game vs. the Eagles.
And let's forget about the early retirement of Al Toon due to concussions.
And let's forget the unfortunate premature death of Dick Steinberg.
And let's forget about Peyton Manning not coming out of college for the Jets to draft at #1.
And let's forget about trading a #1 overall pick to the Rams to draft James Farrior.
And let's forget about the drafting of Johnny "Lam" Jones and Roger Vick and Blair Thomas.
And let's forget that we chose Dave Cadigan over Michael Irvin.
And let's forget the troubles of Everett McIver.
Oh, and let's forget Keyshawn's book.
And let's forget the 1981 Jets / Bills wildcard game ending in Richard Todd's interception.
And let's forget that Tony Meola was a Jet in training camp.
And let's totally forget Mike Haight and Don Boyd Odegard.
And let's forget that tough loss in Tuna Bowl I.
And we must forget Garrison Hearst’s 96 yard TD in San Francisco in overtime.
Let's forget that Lou Holtz quit on the team.
And let's forget John Riggins getting a mohawk.
Let's forget losing both games in 1987 with replacement players.
Let's forget the horribe FA signings of Ronnie Lott, Leonard Marshall, Art Monk, Dexter Carter, and Jeff Graham.
Let's forget Parcells cutting Hugh Douglass.
Let's forget the Astro Turf on the stadium floor.
And let's forget the real grass/sand they replaced it with.
Let's forget the early retirement of Al Toon due to numerous concussions.
Let's forget the 524 yard offensive performance in Baltimore for the season finale with the Playoff spot on the line and we lose.
Let's forget Joe Namath leaving the team. Let's forget Joe Namath's drunken state to Suzy Kobler on national TV. Let's forget about John Abraham puking on the sideline of a Raiders playoff game.
Let's forget Mel Kiper ripping the Jets every year for having no clue what the draft is all about.
Let's forget the Jets blowing a 10 point lead in the AFC Championship vs. Denver.
Let's forget Vinny Testervede blwoing out his achillies in the Season Opener with high expectations.
Let's forget we have a Generation Jets cartoon.
Let's forget Damien Robinson bringing guns to the stadium parking lot.
Let's forget our offensive lineman beating up limo drivers dressed in Santa outfits.
Let's forget Shrek and the Green Lantern becoming unofficial mascots.
Let's forget the Rick Mirer vs. Ray Lucas QB controversary.
Let's forget the Heidi Game.
Let's forget Bill Belechick's one day reign and then quitting as the H.C. of the N.Y. Jets.
Let's forget about Leon Hess saying "Just Win Now" and then goes out and hired Kotite.
Let's forget that we ever had the Baha Men sing at half-time.
Let's forget losing 4 players to the Redskins in one off-season.
Let's forget the Paul Hacket offense.
Let's forget Joe Klecko's acting in Burt Reynolds movies.
Let's forget Mark Gastineau's marriage to Bridgette Neilsen.
Let's forget Mark Gastineau crossing the picket line to play with the scabs.
Let's forget Joe Walton picking his nose on the sidelines.
In between all of this mayhem, was numerous other painful seasons, moments and loses and poor signings and draft picks and coaching changes. Let's forget about our Tight Ends that couldn't catch -- Becht & Brady. And then last year we had the Eric Barton bonehead play as well as the Doug Brien missed field goal to forget about. You couldn't have scripted a more crazy history.
This team needs to put all these ghosts in the past as there is hope. This team is NOT the "Same Ole Jets."
Yes, there were some good times over those "Dark Years" but the bad far out weigh the good. The Jets are not the most talented team in the league (there are some holes) but they play with heart and they have a great game plan. This rollercoaster ride is not over yet. As a long time frustrated Jet Fan...I want more. Leon Hess uttered the words, “Win Now,” a few years back. Well, it is “now” again. Let's put a smile on his face in his grave. So, here is my message to our AFC Eastern Division Champs: Stay focused. Play hard. Ignore the hype. Make us proud. Erase those ghosts.
"MISSED" That's what the New York headlines printed last season after losing to the Steelers which should have vaulted the team to the Championship Game to face the Patriots. The "past" is over as we've been in the playoffs 3 of 4 years.
But how has the team changed? Parcells started it with "buying the groceries" but Bradway and Edwards took it from there. Charley Winner, Ken Shipp, Lou Holtz, Mike Holovak, Walt Michaels, Joe Walton, Bruce Coslet, Pete Carroll, and Rich Kotite couldn't do it.
I've been watching this team since 1970 (35 years -- my entire life) and the Jets are on their way. Something special is happening and you can see it in their eyes. This team is hungry. The recent success this team has had erased the demons of the past. It makes us forget about all the bad times.
So, before getting this season underway, let's forget about all the QBs that couldn't win the big games -- Al Woodall, Richard Todd, Matt Robinson, Pat Ryan, Ken O'Brien, Tony Eason, Browing Nagle, Boomer Esiason, Bubby Brtister, Frank Reich, Neil O'Donnell, Jack Traduau, Glenn Foley, and Qunicy Carter.
Let's forget about Richard Todd throwing a few times to A.J. Duhe in the Mud Bowl.
Let's forget one of those 24 second drives by Marino to win a game in the Orange Bowl.
Let's forget that 1-15 season (and the 3 - 13 season).
Let's forget about Mark Gastineau's late hit on 3rd and 10 that prolonged the Brown's drive in the divisional playoff game.
Let's forget about Parcells' decision to for trick plays with Ray Lucas and Leon Johnson's poor quarterback impressions in the final game vs. Detroit.
Let's forget about that horrible injury to Dennis Byrd.
Let's forget about Dan Marino's fake spike play and the rest of the season when the team quit on Pete Carroll.
Let's forget about the infamous Paul McGuire prediction that the Jets wouldn't win another football game the rest of the year after starting 10-1 and he was right.
And let's forget that infamous Bubby Brister flea-flicker play.
Let's forget about the Blair Thomas' fumble in that Monday Night Football debacle vs. the Bears.
And let's forget about Eric Allen's interception return in a game vs. the Eagles.
And let's forget about the early retirement of Al Toon due to concussions.
And let's forget the unfortunate premature death of Dick Steinberg.
And let's forget about Peyton Manning not coming out of college for the Jets to draft at #1.
And let's forget about trading a #1 overall pick to the Rams to draft James Farrior.
And let's forget about the drafting of Johnny "Lam" Jones and Roger Vick and Blair Thomas.
And let's forget that we chose Dave Cadigan over Michael Irvin.
And let's forget the troubles of Everett McIver.
Oh, and let's forget Keyshawn's book.
And let's forget the 1981 Jets / Bills wildcard game ending in Richard Todd's interception.
And let's forget that Tony Meola was a Jet in training camp.
And let's totally forget Mike Haight and Don Boyd Odegard.
And let's forget that tough loss in Tuna Bowl I.
And we must forget Garrison Hearst’s 96 yard TD in San Francisco in overtime.
Let's forget that Lou Holtz quit on the team.
And let's forget John Riggins getting a mohawk.
Let's forget losing both games in 1987 with replacement players.
Let's forget the horribe FA signings of Ronnie Lott, Leonard Marshall, Art Monk, Dexter Carter, and Jeff Graham.
Let's forget Parcells cutting Hugh Douglass.
Let's forget the Astro Turf on the stadium floor.
And let's forget the real grass/sand they replaced it with.
Let's forget the early retirement of Al Toon due to numerous concussions.
Let's forget the 524 yard offensive performance in Baltimore for the season finale with the Playoff spot on the line and we lose.
Let's forget Joe Namath leaving the team. Let's forget Joe Namath's drunken state to Suzy Kobler on national TV. Let's forget about John Abraham puking on the sideline of a Raiders playoff game.
Let's forget Mel Kiper ripping the Jets every year for having no clue what the draft is all about.
Let's forget the Jets blowing a 10 point lead in the AFC Championship vs. Denver.
Let's forget Vinny Testervede blwoing out his achillies in the Season Opener with high expectations.
Let's forget we have a Generation Jets cartoon.
Let's forget Damien Robinson bringing guns to the stadium parking lot.
Let's forget our offensive lineman beating up limo drivers dressed in Santa outfits.
Let's forget Shrek and the Green Lantern becoming unofficial mascots.
Let's forget the Rick Mirer vs. Ray Lucas QB controversary.
Let's forget the Heidi Game.
Let's forget Bill Belechick's one day reign and then quitting as the H.C. of the N.Y. Jets.
Let's forget about Leon Hess saying "Just Win Now" and then goes out and hired Kotite.
Let's forget that we ever had the Baha Men sing at half-time.
Let's forget losing 4 players to the Redskins in one off-season.
Let's forget the Paul Hacket offense.
Let's forget Joe Klecko's acting in Burt Reynolds movies.
Let's forget Mark Gastineau's marriage to Bridgette Neilsen.
Let's forget Mark Gastineau crossing the picket line to play with the scabs.
Let's forget Joe Walton picking his nose on the sidelines.
In between all of this mayhem, was numerous other painful seasons, moments and loses and poor signings and draft picks and coaching changes. Let's forget about our Tight Ends that couldn't catch -- Becht & Brady. And then last year we had the Eric Barton bonehead play as well as the Doug Brien missed field goal to forget about. You couldn't have scripted a more crazy history.
This team needs to put all these ghosts in the past as there is hope. This team is NOT the "Same Ole Jets."
Yes, there were some good times over those "Dark Years" but the bad far out weigh the good. The Jets are not the most talented team in the league (there are some holes) but they play with heart and they have a great game plan. This rollercoaster ride is not over yet. As a long time frustrated Jet Fan...I want more. Leon Hess uttered the words, “Win Now,” a few years back. Well, it is “now” again. Let's put a smile on his face in his grave. So, here is my message to our AFC Eastern Division Champs: Stay focused. Play hard. Ignore the hype. Make us proud. Erase those ghosts.
A Jets Fans' Opening Day Diary
Sunday, September 11th
12:01 AM - Toast your glass with all Jet fans to wish us luck for the coming season. You start getting pumped. It's time to get back to business.
1:30 AM - Get home from the bar and watch last season's highlight reel one more time to feel the pain of that Steelers loss
2:00 AM - Climb into bed in your Jets T-shirt and boxers and try and fall asleep.
2:30 AM - Toss and turn. The excitement is too much. You have difficult falling asleep.
3:00 AM - Still awake. Get a glass of water, pee, and go back to bed to see if that helps.
3:30 AM - Nope...haven't fallen asleep yet. Check email and check the mesage boards on GangGreen.com
4:00 AM - Climp back into bed and give it another shot.
4:30 AM - It still is not working. Leave bed and go to the TV and watch Saturday's Generation Jets on your DVR.
5:00 AM - Climb back into bed.
5:30 AM - The sleepless night continues as it is getting lighter outside.
6:00 AM - The heck with sleep. Time to get on the couch and watch Sports Center.
6:30 AM - Watch Sports Center again even though it is a repeat...you just can't get enough of football.
7:00 AM - Time to turn on the NFL Channel to get even more football stories.
8:30 AM - It's still early but you hop in the car to get a Dunkin Donuts, a bagel, and every local NY Newspaper for the Jets Season Preview.
9:00 AM - Turn on Sports Center in the kitchen. Eat breakfast while reading your papers. The excitement is growing.
9:30 AM - Back to the couch to review the day's football picks, finish reading the paper, and watch Sports Center for the 4th time.
10:00 AM - Flip Back to the NFL Channel for a bit.
10:30 AM - More football with the Sports Reporters. Once they stop talking football, it's back to ESPN.
11:00 AM - CBS and FOX Pre-Game shows begin as well as ESPN's show. You open up picture in picture to get the best segments.
11:30 AM - Time for 24/7 with Herman Edwards and Jets Jets Jets Talk.
12:00 NOON - Doorbell Rings...Dad and Brother come over to watch the game on the 60" Hi-Def screen. Wife leaves to go shopping.
12:30 PM - Time to bring out the chips and dip and mass flipping between ESPN, FOX, CBS, CNN, MSG, ESPN NEWS, Etc...
1:00 PM - The hands begin sweating. The nerves begin. The NFL season is finally here.
1:04 PM - Jets lose the coin flip.
1:05 PM - YES...the games have begun. Time for redemption on last season's heartbreaking loss.
1:06 PM - Nugent's kick goes into the endzone for a touch back.
1:09 PM - Three and out by KC highlighed by a Vilma sack.
1:10 PM - KC Punts
1:11 PM - Justin Miller take the punt 33 yards to put us in good field position.
1:15 PM - Chad and the new non-conservative offense takes the field.
1:16 PM - First play from scrimmage, Chad in the shotgun, goes deep to coles for a 45 yard Touchdown!
1:17 PM - Nugent nails his first extra point of his career.
And the rest is history. Curtis gets his 100 yards. Coles gets his 100 yards. Chad passes for 300 yards, going 22 for 27, 3 touchdowns and no INTs.
4:00 PM - Start rooting for the Giants to lose and flipping thru channels the rest of the night as you can't get enough of the highlights of the Jets victory over the Chiefs by a score of 38 to 3.
12:01 AM - Toast your glass with all Jet fans to wish us luck for the coming season. You start getting pumped. It's time to get back to business.
1:30 AM - Get home from the bar and watch last season's highlight reel one more time to feel the pain of that Steelers loss
2:00 AM - Climb into bed in your Jets T-shirt and boxers and try and fall asleep.
2:30 AM - Toss and turn. The excitement is too much. You have difficult falling asleep.
3:00 AM - Still awake. Get a glass of water, pee, and go back to bed to see if that helps.
3:30 AM - Nope...haven't fallen asleep yet. Check email and check the mesage boards on GangGreen.com
4:00 AM - Climp back into bed and give it another shot.
4:30 AM - It still is not working. Leave bed and go to the TV and watch Saturday's Generation Jets on your DVR.
5:00 AM - Climb back into bed.
5:30 AM - The sleepless night continues as it is getting lighter outside.
6:00 AM - The heck with sleep. Time to get on the couch and watch Sports Center.
6:30 AM - Watch Sports Center again even though it is a repeat...you just can't get enough of football.
7:00 AM - Time to turn on the NFL Channel to get even more football stories.
8:30 AM - It's still early but you hop in the car to get a Dunkin Donuts, a bagel, and every local NY Newspaper for the Jets Season Preview.
9:00 AM - Turn on Sports Center in the kitchen. Eat breakfast while reading your papers. The excitement is growing.
9:30 AM - Back to the couch to review the day's football picks, finish reading the paper, and watch Sports Center for the 4th time.
10:00 AM - Flip Back to the NFL Channel for a bit.
10:30 AM - More football with the Sports Reporters. Once they stop talking football, it's back to ESPN.
11:00 AM - CBS and FOX Pre-Game shows begin as well as ESPN's show. You open up picture in picture to get the best segments.
11:30 AM - Time for 24/7 with Herman Edwards and Jets Jets Jets Talk.
12:00 NOON - Doorbell Rings...Dad and Brother come over to watch the game on the 60" Hi-Def screen. Wife leaves to go shopping.
12:30 PM - Time to bring out the chips and dip and mass flipping between ESPN, FOX, CBS, CNN, MSG, ESPN NEWS, Etc...
1:00 PM - The hands begin sweating. The nerves begin. The NFL season is finally here.
1:04 PM - Jets lose the coin flip.
1:05 PM - YES...the games have begun. Time for redemption on last season's heartbreaking loss.
1:06 PM - Nugent's kick goes into the endzone for a touch back.
1:09 PM - Three and out by KC highlighed by a Vilma sack.
1:10 PM - KC Punts
1:11 PM - Justin Miller take the punt 33 yards to put us in good field position.
1:15 PM - Chad and the new non-conservative offense takes the field.
1:16 PM - First play from scrimmage, Chad in the shotgun, goes deep to coles for a 45 yard Touchdown!
1:17 PM - Nugent nails his first extra point of his career.
And the rest is history. Curtis gets his 100 yards. Coles gets his 100 yards. Chad passes for 300 yards, going 22 for 27, 3 touchdowns and no INTs.
4:00 PM - Start rooting for the Giants to lose and flipping thru channels the rest of the night as you can't get enough of the highlights of the Jets victory over the Chiefs by a score of 38 to 3.
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