Ryan and Sanchez Lead New York Jets Past New England Patriots

Led by a rookie quarterback, Mark Sanchez, and rookie a head coach, Rex Ryan, the New York Jets find themselves on top of the competitive AFC East, with a 2-0 record. While it is too early to hand the Jets the AFC East division title, you have to be impressed with their play so far this season. In both of their games, week one's convincing win over the Houston Texans, and today's exciting victory over the New England Patriots, the Jets have played well on both sides of the ball. Though, it's been the play of the defense, that's really stood out.

When Rex Ryan came over from the Baltimore Ravens, you knew he would try and create a team known for its tough defensive play, so far, so good. In their first regular season game against the Houston Texans, the Jets defense had 2 sacks, an interception, and limited the Texans offense to 183 total yards. In today's game, the Jets defense kept Brady and the Patriots offense out of the end zone, while recording another interception. The Jets defense was aggressive and effective against a very good New England Patriots team.

So far, the 2009 Jets have given their fans a lot to be excited about. Their first round draft pick, Mark Sanchez, hasn't looked like a rookie for the most part. Watching Sanchez play, there is a calm about him. The former USC QB has been pressured, and sacked, but has yet to look overwhelmed or lost on the field.

With Sanchez under center leading the offense, and Rex Ryan commanding the defense, the New York Jets, look like a very good football team. One year removed from the failed Favre experiment, this years Jets look like a united team, with each man focused on doing his job. It may be too soon for Ryan and Sanchez to try and grab the torch from Belichick and Brady, but it's clear the Jets have put the teams in the AFC East on notice, the Jets are ready to be a force in the division.

Sources:

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/teams/stats/NYJ