The New York Jets kept their playoff hopes alive by beating the Denver Broncos 19-13. The Jets improved to 7-6 and are still one game behind the division leaders New England Patriots. QB Chad Pennington had yet another solid game, as he completed 19 of his 30 passes for a total of 244 yards. At the start of the 4th quarter Pennington connected with WR Laveranues Coles for a 28-yard touchdown, which turned out to be the game winner. Coles finished the game with 6 receptions for 126 yards. He's had over 100 receiving yards in 3 of last 4 games. WR Wayne Chrebet made 5 catches for 69 yards, including a few clutch receptions on 3rd downs. The Jets were unable to get the running game going - just 64 yards on 22 carries, but RB Curtis Martin crossed the 10,000-yard rushing mark in his career and also scored his 6th rushing touchdown of the season. TE Anthony Becht dropped a sure touchdown pass in the 4th quarter, this mistake could have cost the Jets a win in this game. Once again PK Jon Hall had an extra point blocked, but was perfect on field goal attempts - 2 for 2.
The Jets struggled on defense for the most part of the game, but managed to make big plays when it really counted. First, the Gang Green stopped QB Brian Griese on a 4th and one quarterback sneak in the second quarter. Then, with less than 2 minutes left in the game S Jon McGraw intercepted Griese's pass on the Jets' 1-yard line and clinched the Jets' victory. MLB Marvin Jones had an outstanding game - 17 tackles (12 solo). Both DT John Evans and DE John Abraham recorded a sack apiece, and continue leading the team with 6.0 and 7.0 sacks respectively. OLB Sam Cowart also had a pretty solid game - 10 tackles (6 solo). Overall, as I already mentioned, the defense played a bad game. The Broncos gained 369 yards, converted 60% of their third downs, and had 21 first downs. The absence of CB Aaron Beasley (concussion) did not go unnoticed, as rookie CB Andrew Davison got beaten by WR Ashley Lelie on the only Denver touchdown of the game.
Next Sunday the Jets will travel to Illinois to take on the injury plagued Chicago Bears. Despite their awful record, 3-9, the Bears still have a very dangerous defense that is known for their ability to capitalize on opponent's mistakes. A win against Chicago would place the Jets right in the heat of the battle for the AFC East crown, as in two weeks the Jets will take on the New England Patriots.