5 Keyz: Patriots vs. Jets

From BostonSportz.com: 

You had to know that round two of the Patriots-Jets would be an immensely bigger game than when they first met in Week Two. Both teams had new quarterbacks and were still in a state of figuring out what they had. But now both are hitting on all cylinders making this Thursday's clash all the more intriguing.

This game will go a long way toward defining the 2008 versions of both teams. If the Pats win it will be another huge nail in Fredo Mangini’s coffin as the Jets head coach. If the Jets win it will look like all their bold moves of the off-season will have paid off and put them one step closer to the AFC East title. Either way, it’s sure to be a classic battle between two good teams. The Keyz for the Pats…

1. Gotta Get to Favre: Losing Adalius Thomas was a huge blow this week, even bigger than the loss of Rodney Harrison, and the lack of his pass rush presence could be a huge factor on Thursday. The Pats will have to get pressure on Favre somehow. Whether it’s Richard Seymour bowling over D’Brickshaw Ferguson, or Mike Vrabel looking like 2007 Mike Vrabel, putting the heat on Favre is key to forcing him into his signature ill advised throws. If Favre has time he will burn the Pats secondary.

2. Run the Rock: The key to Patriots offensive success has been how they’ve been able to move the ball on the ground. They’ve been able to pick up crucial third-and-shorts on numerous occasions and have consistently moved the ball on first down. This will have to continue against the Jets and it will be no easy task given how the Jets Run D has been playing. Kris Jenkins is an absolute beast and the Pats O-Line will have their work cut out for them. If the Pats can establish the running game early on it will open up the passing game.

3. Put the “Fun” in Fundamental Tackling: The one weakness that the Patriots defense shows from time to time is an inability to make tackles. This is especially important this week since the Jets have so many small, quick threats. Cotchery, Coles and Washington must be brought down at first contact, otherwise they can and will take it the distance.

4. Don’t Give Them a Sniff: A fast start is vital for the Pats. If they allow the Jets to stick around it will only embolden them. Put them in a quick hole and watch them implode. This is the recipe for success when someone comes to challenge the champs. Just look at how last week’s game against the Bills went.

5. Win: Beating the Jets twice in 2008 without Tom Brady will go a long way towards deeming this season a success for the Patriots. If you can hold off your number one challenger without your number one player you have to be doing a lot of things right. While this would in no way lock up the division it would give the Pats some breathing room in the tightest division race they’ve seen in years. At 7-3 the Pats would again have to be considered a favorite in the AFC, with perhaps the potential to grab a bye which would be absolutely incredible given the injuries they have had.