2-1, Not too Shabby

“In rebuilding mode at best.” “A coach on the hot seat, a QB controversy, a running game that doesn't look strong -- a team headed in the wrong direction.” “Until the team can figure out the quarterback and the offensive line, individual pieces on both sides of the ball won't matter.”

You would think those preseason quotes would have been directed towards an oh-and-three team. Perhaps the Jaguars or Raiders, or maybe the Minnesota Vikings or Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Nope, those comments were about none other than the 2-1 New York Jets.

I know, I know, all they’ve done is beat the aforementioned, hapless Bucs and the in-no-man’s-land Buffalo Bills, while missing a glorious chance to take down the New England Patriots. And when I say glorious, I mean two of the top three receivers in the contest for the Pats had more drops that game than games played in their careers.

So, why make a fuss over the Jets just because they beat two bad teams?

Because they are legit.

For starters, they have faced three pro bowl running backs in the first three weeks of the season. Two of the three backs finished with one yard or less, and the other went for 40.

Again, two of them went for one yard or LESS.

And if that weren’t impressive enough, the Gang Green’s D also ranks third in total yards allowed, sixth in yards given up on the ground, and seventh in passing defense.

On the other side of the ball, Geno Smith has led the Jets offense to tenth-best in yards and the backs and offensive line have gotten the O to sixth in rushing.

Still not a believer? Maybe this will change your mind: New York will only face six teams who either made the playoffs last year or have a winning record so far this season.

This by no means guarantees that Rex and Co. will make the playoffs. However, splitting their next six games (with one win coming against any of the teams referred to above) will put them in the discussion for a potential wild card berth.

Still don’t want to reserve a seat on the Jets bandwagon? That choice is yours, however don’t be surprised if MetLife Stadium is rooting for the home team in December, bracing for an important stretch run.

And no, I’m not talking about the Giants.