Known more for their offensive prowess in year’s past, the Bengals are now a solid defensive team. They rank 4th overall in total defense and are particularly tough against the run, allowing only 88 yards per game (ranked 2nd).

In only his second year, defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer has transformed this defense into a formidable unit. His squad is tough, physical and plays with a chip on its shoulder.

Many of these guys were castoffs from other teams and Zimmer has used that to unite this rag-tag group. He has also blended some good young talent and has these guys playing at a high level.

In an unusual turn of events the Jets find themselves in an enviable “win and you’re in” scenario. By facing their second consecutive opponent whose playoff position will not change dramatically whether they win or not, the Jets should be able to benefit from a number of starters being rested.

Although this scenario should provide an easier path to victory, I am pulling for many of Cincinnati’s starters to play. This Jets team needs to learn how to win and there is no better way to do that than to pull out a tough game against a good team on national TV.

Shonn Green Video

Matt Sanchez Video

I am not a big Shonn Greene fan.  He had a good year for the Hawkeyes but is too one dimensional for my taste.

There were a few other running backs I liked better and they could have been had without moving up.  In particular, Rashad Jennings from Liberty and Kory Sheets from Purdue are two players who I believe have more upside.