After the Jets 16-3 loss last week to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, a lot was talked about regarding the lack of production from the running game. Clearly for the Jets to compete this season, they will need a healthy Curtis Martin to return to the team, or a suprising emergence out of Cedric Houston or Leon Washington. Derrick Blaylock has been a disappointment since signing before last season, and has yet to show he is capable of running between the tackles. The attempted acquisition of running back Lee Suggs from Cleveland suggests that Derrick Blaylock could be cut before the start of the season as it is not likely they would enter week 1 with 4 RBs on their roster. Cedric Houston showed flashes in limited playing time last season with a nice mix of power and speed but it is unclear if he could handle the full time load. Leon Washington is a very intriguing option, and although Houston would likely get a majority of the work ahead of him, dont suprised if in a year or two he is the teams starting back. Washington, a 4th round pick, was one of the fastest RBs in the draft. His break away speed and suprising power from his 5?9 frame could thrive when this young Jet offensive line becomes a force in the upcoming years, as he recieved no help at FSU. Still lost in the whole picture is Curtis Martin. For the past five seasons he has been considered finished by many and although this is as bad as its looked for the future hall of fame back, dont be suprised to see him in green and white this season.

The Quaterback race could get interesting tomorrow night. Although Pennington has all but officially won the job, he may be unavailable to play due to a family illness. Dont be suprised if Eric Mangini decides to give rookie Kellen Clemens some time with the 1st string, followed by Patrick Ramsey and Brooks Bollinger. Chad Pennington will still likely start opening day at Tennessee, as he has suprised many people with the steps he has taken and the progress made in a short period of time. He is already making throws that last season were out of the question.

Pay close attention to the defense Eric Mangini displays. Many players have already talked about the complexity of the coverages and schemes, as you will see players at numerous positions throughout a game. Dewayne Robertson is expected to start at NT in the 3-4 but also see some time at DE in a 4-3 or when displaying their 2 man front. Bryan Thomas is expected to start at OLB, even with no previous experience at position. Derrick Strait will be in the mix at safety, joining Erik Coleman, Kerry Rhodes, and Andre Maddox. At CB newly aquired Andre Dyson will start as Justin Miller and David Barrett battle for the #2.