Bolts From The Blue: Bring On The Blitz

Bolts From The Blue takes a hard look at the stats from both the Jets and the Chargers, just to see how they compare. Using plenty of advanced stats, they come to the conclusion that the Chargers are a superior team and the Jets will have to create some sacks, turnovers and penalties to upset San Diego. Turns out, that’s just how the Jets defense operates. Rex Ryan is an attack-dog in defensive philosophy, so expect Gang Green to bring the blitz, like they did to the Bengals. BFTB concludes that should be no problem for Philip Rivers.

If [the Jets] want to win, they’re going to have to take away what the Chargers do best, and that’s throw the ball. They’ll have to knock Philip around and pick off a couple passes. The problem is that they’ll have a hard time doing that. Rivers threw only 9 interceptions this year, four of which were on tipped balls. After taking a bit of a beating the first five games, Philip has taken very few sacks in the last 11. These things are a result of the offensive line blocking better, the Chargers gameplanning better, and Rivers just being better in the pocket. That probably won’t stop Rex Ryan from trying, though. As I pointed out in my film review, Ryan threw blitz upon blitz at Carson Palmer. There’s little to suggest he won’t do the same thing to the Chargers—that’s how their defense operates. If I had to guess, I’d say that Rivers and Turner are hoping he does exactly that. Philip has been phenomenal against the blitz this year, and the Chargers’ pair of offensive masterminds have probably dreamed up numerous fun ways to hammer the Jets when they try to rush 5 or more.

Video: Nothing to do with the game, but seriously, how awesomely cheesy is this cut from LT?