Mark Sanchez
The New York Jets upset the second seeded San Diego Chargers Sunday by a score of 17-14 to earn a berth in the AFC Championship game next weekend.
A 53-yard Shonn Greene touchdown run with a little over seven minutes remaining sealed the win.
Greene led the Jets offense with 23 carries for 128 yards and the big touchdown.
Rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez was 12-for-23 passing for 128 yards with a touchdown and a interception.
Ironically, the Jets gave the Chargers a dose of their former medicine by playing “Marty Ball.”
Of course the Chargers didn’t do themselves any favors in the game either.
After hitting on 20 straight coming into the game, kicker Nate Kaeding was 0-3 in field goal attempts.
Meanwhile, LaDainian Tomlinson and Darren Sproles were greatly limited in backfield, rushing for a combined 57 yards.
Philip Rivers’ arm was used in copious amounts.
The Chargers quarterback was 27-for-40 passing the ball—good for 298 yards and one touchdown. He was also picked off twice.
Antonio Gates led the Chargers receivers with eight catches for 93 yards.
Fullback Keith Wilson made the most of his only reception by scoring a 13-yard touchdown.
Penalties were also a killer for the Chargers, who out-penalized the Jets by a 2:1 ratio.
The New York Jets now turn their attention to the AFC Championship game and the Indianapolis Colts.
An 8.5 point underdog Sunday against the Chargers, the spread will likely be even great next week.
Somehow, I don’t think the Jets will mind.