Back in the Playoff Hunt!

J-E-T-S JETS JETS JETS! After last week’s disappointing loss to those spoilers the Buffalo Bills, our New York Jets turned it around this week, putting the hurt on the Minnesota Vikings.

Since the Jets won and the fans don’t need quite as much therapy please allow me to introduce myself… while you all know me as the official blogger for Bad Dog and Bad Pup – a title I consider one of life’s highest honors – there is more to the story. I also operate HERE’S THE KICKER a blog dedicated to the guys who kick the ball out on the gridiron. When not obsessing over field goals and punts (hey, someone’s gotta do it) I work as a creative development exec for a film and TV company and produce short form content under the moniker of ThePoorBastard .

But enough about me and onto our weekly recap of NYJetsTherapy with Bad Dog and Bad Pup.

Bad Pup kicks things off by saying, “we’re back in the playoff race!” She was even serenaded by some buddies who called from the bar – their song of choice? Stayin’ Alive. Nice.

Bad Dog is not so easily satisfied and start off by pointing out that the Jets gave up a late touchdown. Not to mention the poor start of the game, largely blamed on much-bemoaned CB Dyson. Bad Dog calls for him to be benched and replaced full-time with Hank Poteat and David Barrett. Bad Pup can’t argue though she points out he made a few good plays later in the game.

Onto the positive, tons of praise for QB Chad Pennington. Great use of the whole squad of receivers and worked the play-action pass like an expert. Lavernius Coles also felt the warm embrace of the Dog’s love. “He’s all-pro. If he’s not all-pro, who is?” And then, like music to this blogger’s ears, the Bad Dog handed out a biscuit to my man D’Brickashaw! Though both Dogs are withholding a final verdict until they see how he does against the Miami Dolphin’s fantastic Jason Taylor.

And if this wasn’t already pretty much my favorite therapy session this season, Bad Dog eats crow on the subject of kicker Mike Nugent. Three field goals close to 50 yards last week finally sent home the message that Mr. Nugent is a true asset to the team. Bad Pup knew I’d be happy to hear them praising the kicker and even gave me a little shout-out of my own. Happy days, indeed.

Of course, we can’t stay positive for too long. Wouldn’t want the Dogs to lose their bite. And the bite turns to Shaun Ellis, who Bad Dog feels missed some key tackles and sack opportunities. Bad Dog wonders if he isn’t just out of shape at this point and needs to be benched. Bad Pup gives Ellis a little support but not a whole lot. The silver lining on defense is DT’s Matt McChesney and Dewayne Robertson who both Dogs praise.

Bad Dog also likes how TE Chris Baker has been playing – laying down solid blocks and reliable catches. However, he is a bit concerned that MLB Vilma is having some trouble. He also points out a “hidden player” - #33 SS Eric Smith – that is really exciting to watch when he gets into the game.

Bad Pup is surprised they’ve gotten this far into the show before Bad Dog can get in some lovin’ for his pet player, RB Cedric Houston. Though, once she opens the gates Bad Dog is off and running. “The New York press if they don’t understand that this guy is the real mccoy, I don’t understand…He is a bull!” Although he really only got off for 60+ yards it was against the #1 run defense.

Bad Pup finally gave some props to Mangini and the coaching crew for keeping them in the game after the rough start and Bad Dog makes a final plea to the NY Press on behalf of Houston.

Now, bring on the Fish! And Happy Holidays to all the Jets fans.