5. Old friends and current foes. More specifically referring to the Santonio Holmes factor. It is undeniable, that the former Super Bowl MVP and Pittsburgh Steeler, has an uncanny knack for making the big catch in the most difficult and crucial situation. Look for him, to once again, come up with a key grab down the field or perhaps in the endzone, when the Jets need it the most. And, of course, count on both feet being in bounds while in full control of the football.
4. Us against the world mentality. We, as football fans, all know that the desired path to the NFL promised land is not through a wild card slot and a flurry of hard fought road wars. But the physical and mental makeup of this New York Jets squad, seems not only like it is capable of accomplishing the feat but that it thrives on the challenge. Not only are they vocally confident, if not arrogant, but they continue to back up the boisterous ranting of coach Rex Ryan. They thrive in an underdog role, and remain steadfast and determined to prove all critics wrong. This constant edge and chip on their shoulder, is highly consistent with the classic characteristics of a Super Bowl football team.
3. War in the trenches part 1. The New York Jets offensive line is of the most effective, cohesive units in the game. Anchored by center Nick Mangold, the group remains a picture of consistency and has proven to be a valuable security blanket during the progression and development of young quarterback, Mark Sanchez. They are the unsung heroes of a ground attack that both allows the Jets to control the clock and provide manageable 3rd down situations and throwing opportunities for Sanchez.
The beasts up front are a perfect compliment to the Jets, two headed running machine. Look for the seemingly fresh legs of the revitalized LaDainian Tomlinson and the hard nosed grinding style of Shonn Greene, to have a more productive day than most experts think. They were one of two teams to gain over 100 yards against the Steelers on the ground this season, both of those efforts resulting in a Steeler loss. While Steeler fans will be quick to point out that they went to war without the great long haired one at safety in their previous match-up, my instincts tell me that they will run the ball effectively again, in spite of his return.
2. War in the trenches part 2. Frankly, I am amazed that the Steelers have been able to advance to this stage and keep Big Ben alive, with the presence of this glued together, makeshift offensive line. There is a strong possibility that this could be the week where the proverbial wheels come off of the rusty, ailing vehicle. Any fan that witnessed the Jets physically dominant 5 sack performance against Tom Brady last week, would understand why this is ample reason for concern. They played with a renewed intensity and vengeance that was displayed in constant pressure provided by linemen Shaun Ellis and Sione Pouha and with blitzes on the outside by Jason Taylor and Calvin Pace. While Ben is among the best I've ever seen at taking punishment and executing under pressure, he will be tested to a new level with less than sufficient protection up front. Look for the defensive onslaught to provide at least one key turnover, which will be one of the determining factors in the outcome of this game.
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