J. Satwani AP 12.26.06 JETS Have Control of their Fate Merry Christmas!! The New York Jets have officially gained control of their own destiny. It?s now real simple. WIN. After defeating the Dolphins in a hard fought Monday night battle, they are now in position to clinch a playoff berth at home next week against Oakland. The season has been quite a ride for this team behind new head coach Eric Mangini. There have been doubters, naysayers, and negativity from the media and public. However, respect has been earned in many ways. We can start by taking a look at Chad Pennington. The quarterback with ?the noodle arm? is having a hell of a year. With just about 3200 yards and a 64% completion percentage, the man has answered the bell. His physical ability has been questioned over and over even by our very own Jets faithful, and Chad has not turned this hatred into anger, he has turned into strength. Yes, he has shut up people up in a big way. He has been an amazing leader and hard worker. He has come out and GOTTEN IT DONE. In a league full of ups and downs, how can you not want a guy who leads, plays hard, and gets it done? Next, we can show more love to the young ball coach. Manginious has done a hell of a job instilling a new culture for the Jets. People are happy with him and rightfully so. The guy is an absolute workaholic who pays attention to every detail. He is no fool like what his name over at Kansas City. He demands the best and gets our guys ready. He is going to be the coach for years and years to come. Let?s not forget about the men in uniform. This team has gotten here by hard work plain and simple. You got to give it up to the young guys. The rookie class has been brilliant and very instant impact. Starting up front with Ferguson and Mangold, two young studs who are mature beyond their years. Their attitude and ability has made them so instantly successful. Don?t forget about the latest hero, Leon Washington aka Neon Leon. The guy is quick, tough, and fun to watch. He can really make a defense miss out there. All great rookie play aside, we have some other young ballers that have just been fascinating out there. Jon Vilma with his adjustment to the coach?s new system without any bitterness whatsoever. Kerry Rhodes flying around causing all sorts of problems for offenses. Bryan Thomas, the so called ?bust? is playing great football. Laverneus Coles and Jerricho Cotchery are making themselves into quite a duo. Oh yeah, we can now show respect to owner Woody Johnson. The man saw a problem with this team and had it turned around and quicker than any other team in the league. Think about it Jets fans, how long will it take the Ford family to replace Millen like Johnson did with Bradway. He recognized a problem and was unafraid to do something about it. He pushed for the hiring of Mangini and now sits in on team meetings. The owner of the JETS wants them to win as much as any die hard fan. What more can we ask for? Amazing? Yes. In one year, the Jets fans have really found themselves something to smile about. The future looks bright for the men in green.
