The New York Jets (9-7) got the biggest win of their season, beating the Cincinnati Bengals (10-6) at home.  It was a must-win for the Jets, because if they lost they would be on vacation right now instead of preparing for the first round of the playoffs.  The Jets’ running game did most of the work for the offense, getting 257 yards of the 320 total yards.  Mark Sanchez didn’t have to do much other than hand the ball off and manage the game.  He went 8/16 for 63 yards and did not turn the ball over, so he did his job.  Brad Smith had a career game, rushing for 92 yards and a touchdown on 4 carries, including a 57-yard run.

The Jets’ defense had been great all season, and this game was no different.  Their defense is the reason they are in the playoffs this season and they made a statement in this game.  They held Carson Palmer to 0 yards, on 1/11 passes and they picked him off once.  Those are some pretty pathetic numbers the Jets’ defense forced Palmer into.  They also held the Bengals to 72 yards, although Cedric Benson did sit this one out for the Bengals.  The Bengals were resting some of their starters, but the Jets completely dominated this game and look ready for the playoffs.