So wrong, So much of the time

Once again, I have proved that I cannot pick NFL games. Here are some of the worst misses:

I thought that when the Jets went to New England last Thursday the game would be a little bit more on the defensive side. Instead, the Patriots gained over 500 yards, and the Jets used a balanced attack to put up 34 points. The Patriots actually played a pretty solid game overall, but the Jets came up with big plays, and New England did not. In the first half the Jets looked like they might run away with the game, especially after a Leon Washington 92-yard kickoff return. But, as one might expect, Bill Belichick made the proper adjustments at half time, and the Pats stormed back into the game.

The Jets defense had the epitome of a bend-but-don't-break performance. They somehow managed to give up 400 yards passing to Matt Cassel. Cassel looked as good as he has all year, turning from a one-read quarterback into one who was checking down and finding single coverage when he had to. But the Jets came up with a few stops in this game, even if they were on their own side of the field. They won this game because of two long drives, one in the 4th quarter, and the second on the opening possession of overtime. This was a really great game, and was a rare one that leads the viewer to believe that both teams are legit, even if one lost.

Meanwhile, the Denver Broncos actually managed to play some defense in Atlanta, and came up with a huge win. My mantra with the Broncos all season has said that Jay Cutler will put up big numbers, but their defense will let them down. For now, they look to have the AFC West and a first-round home game wrapped up, with San Diego (4-6) losing to Pittsburgh. Sunday's 24-20 win over the Falcons might spark a run for the Broncos.

In the case of the Philadelphia Eagles, I think it is time to write them off. They have been wildly inconsistent from week to week. Sometimes, they have looked very good, even in losses. Other times, Donovan McNabb can't hold on to the ball, and they look pretty bad. Yes, Cincinnati has played tough in a lot of their losses, but the Eagles were supposed to be a contender, and they are lucky to have tied the Bengals. McNabb has to take care of the ball. The defense played solid, but somewhere along the line you have to put up some points. Ugliest game of the year? 13-13 might tell the entire story.