When the Bills host the Jets today at 1 p.m., in what is shaping up to be the most meaningful game in Buffalo since Doug Flutie was calling the audibles, one match-up that seems to be getting major hype in western NY is Darelle Revis versus Stevie Johnson.
Stevie has picked up right where he left off last year as he leads the team in receiving yards and receptions despite defensive game planning and lurking safeties. However, with him and Revis likely to be attached at the hip, one may ask how to best approach the dominant corner. Revis, who currently leads the Jets with 4 interceptions on the year, is looking to add to that total in what is shaping up to be a do or die performance for Gang Green.
In 2011 teams, to put it simply, have had little to no success challenging Revis. Offensive play callers have avoided throwing in Darelle’s vicinity, and smartly so. Opposing quarterbacks hold a pitiful 2.9 passer rating along with a sub 40 percent completion rate when throwing in Darelle’s direction. In addition, he has only allowed 10 receptions through the first half of the 2011 NFL campaign, all the while covering number one receivers almost exclusively. It appears that a long day is in store for Stevie Johnson (And my fantasy team), as Revis is making a strong case for defensive player of the year.
Chan Gailey hopes to spread the field in an attempt to limit Revis’ impact on the passing game. That, coupled with a heavy dose of the X-Factor Fred Jackson should hopefully keep Revis’ ball hawking abilities at bay, allowing Buffalo to put together methodical drives and control the clock. Jackson currently leads the Bills in total yards from scrimmage, and currently ranks in the top 5 in the NFL for rushing yards, yards per game, and touchdowns.
The return of Donald Jones could not have come at a better time, as his on field presence will be needed to stretch the field vertically to open up some underneath routes for the sure handed David Nelson in the slot. Utilizing Scott Chandler outside of the red zone may also prove necessary in order to keep the chains moving on a consistent basis. Tight Ends have found some success against the typically stout New York Jets Defense this year The Buffalo offense will need to continue their quick passing attack behind the arm of the 29 year old Harvard graduate, Ryan Fitzpatrick, who just happens to be the face of the Buffalo Bills franchise.
All in all this should be a great battle between two familiar AFC East foes this afternoon in Orchard park. As long as the Bills commit to attacking the Jets Defensive front things should stay in the their favor. I’m sure the 12th man will be in full effect in Orchard Park, hopefully fueling another electric Buffalo Bills performance, as they attempt to remain unbeaten at the Ralph, and atop the AFC.