Jets Vs. Patriots: 2011 NFL Divisional Playoffs Predictions & TV Time

The 2011 NFL Divisional Playoffs game between the New York Jets and New England Patriots (host) is scheduled for Sunday January 16 (4:30 PM EST) at Gillette Stadium. CBS Sports will broadcast the highly anticipated game. New York earned a spot in the playoffs by finishing second in the AFC East; New England is the #1 seed in the AFC, enjoying an astounding 14-2 record. This article offers TV time and predictions for the 2011 Jets-Patriots game.

1) Jets-Patriots Match-up

This AFC contest features two of the league's best teams (record-wise) in the New York Jets and New England Patriots. This is one of the NFL's longest rivalries, dating back to 1960. Since 2000, the rivals have encountered 23 times with the Patriots leading 15-8. Although New England has dominated most of this decade, New York is enjoying a nice resurgence; the Jets are 3-2 against the Patriots in the last 5 contests. The last meeting between the two teams was in December of last year; New England won that game in dominant fashion 45-3.

2) Mark Sanchez vs. Tom Brady

Sunday's game pits second-year quarterback Mark Sanchez against future Hall-of-Famer Tom Brady. While Sanchez does not have Tom Brady's throwing ability, he shares one key similarity with the Patriots' quarterback. Both QBs know how to win games and can provide clutch plays when needed. For the season, Mark Sanchez has accumulated 3291 passing yards, 17 TDs, and a low QB rating of 75. Tom Brady, on the other hand, is having another fantastic season statistically. The New England's quarterback has amassed to date 3900 passing yards, 36 touchdowns, and a spectacular QB rating of 111. Statistically speaking, Brady is head and shoulder above Sanchez.

3) Rex Ryan vs. Bill Belichick

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Rex Ryan's team has been impressive at both ends of the field. The New York Jets is exceptionally strong on the defensive front, ranking high in most defensive categories. The team is currently 6th in points allowed, 3rd in rushing defense, and 6th in opponent passing yards. New York has enjoyed success on the offensive front as well, placing 13th in points scored. The team's biggest weakness this year has been its passing game. Although Mark Sanchez has played well, he is by no means a prolific passer. This weakness, however, has been largely compensated by a strong rushing game which ranks 4th overall.

While the Jets has been relying on its defense to win games, the New England Patriots has been using its offense to great effect. The league's top offense, anchored by Tom Brady, produces an average of 32 points a game. Moreover, Bill Belichick's team has recorded 38 pts or more in a game on seven different occasions this season. Remarkably, the team's biggest weakness this year has been its defense (which is at worst still above average.) New England ranks 30th in passing defense and 11th in opponent rushing yards. Fortunately, its opponent (the NY Jets) possesses a mediocre passing game which should bode well for Belichick's crew.

My prediction for the 2011 NFL Divisional Playoffs game between the New York Jets and New England Patriots: it's déjà vu all over again, as the Patriots will once again run up a big score on its rival. Kickoff time for the game is 4:30 PM EST. The game will be played at Gillette Stadium. CBS Sports will broadcast the contest.

Reference:
ESPN.COM