New York Jets vs. Oakland Raiders: Keys to Victory

Dec 1, 2013; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets running back Chris Ivory (33) is tackled by Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Paul Soliai (96) during the third quarter of a game at MetLife Stadium. The Dolphins defeated the Jets 23-3. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Tomorrow, the “Road to MetLife Stadium” continues, although this game involves two teams essentially playing out the string. From MetLife stadium, the Oakland Raiders bring their 4-8 record to face Rex Ryan and his beleaguered New York Jets squad. At 5-7, the Jets are still “mathematically” in the race, but with very few tiebreakers on their side, the playoffs would be a tall order.

Let’s get to some keys for Jets’ victory:

LET GENO PLAY:

The debate on who should be starting at quarterback is over. For better or worse, coach Ryan named Geno Smith the starting quarterback. Now, it’s time to take the gloves off.

Teams are obviously going to stack the box against the Jets. Look at the tape, there would be no reason not to. Every team the rest of the way is going to come up to stop the run, and dare the Jets to beat them through the air. Marty has to let Geno do just that. For that reason and one other….

We aren’t going to learn how good Geno Smith is without letting him play.

STOP THE RUN

They may have four wins, but the Raiders are second in the league in rushing yards per game this year, with 133.1 yards per game. This happens to be the Jets strength as well on defense, as they only give up 77 yards per game on the ground.

The Jets have been beaten by the Raiders’ ground game before. Last time these two teams met, Darren McFadden ran for 171 yards and two touchdowns in a Raiders’ victory. This battle will do a great deal in determining the outcome of tomorrow’s game.

FIRE UP THE PASS RUSH

I like what I have seen out of Matt McGloin. He legitimately, at least in my opinion, could be the quarterback of the future for the Raiders. Time to get him rattled. Any quarterback will be thrown off their game when they are forced “off their spot”. Rush him up the middle, and the quarterback has to move.

A big game will need to be had from Mo Wilkerson and company up front. Get to him, get in his throwing lanes, or he might just pick us apart.

How do YOU think we need to win?