Now that the hype has begun for the battle between the Jets and the Patriots next Monday night (Dec. 6th), lets take a look at the AFC Playoff picture.
Division Leaders
1. New York Jets 9-2 East
2. Baltimore Ravens 8-3 North
3. Kansas City Chiefs 7-4 West
4. Jacksonville Jaguars 6-5 South
Wild Card
5. New England Patriots 9-2
6. Pittsburgh Steelers 8-3
Still in contention
San Diego Chargers 6-5
Miami Dolphins 6-5
Indianapolis Colts 6-5
Houston Texans 5-6
Tennessee Titans 5-6
Oakland Raiders 5-6
As you can see it is going to be a very close race, especially if you consider that Gang Green has to play Miami and Pittsburgh following their marquee match-up with the Pats. In some cases it could come down to conference record or division record to determine tiebreakers.
So while many are going to put a ton of emphasis on the Jets showdown with their bitter rival, Gang Green cannot afford any type of letdown following that game. Any type of December swoon could push the Jets out of the playoffs.
At the same time if the Jets can continue their winning ways, they could secure home field advantage throughout the playoffs. Wouldn’t that be some way to break in the new stadium?
