Once Jonathan Vilma hit the Injured Reserve, the Jets season officially ended. Before this misunderstood misfortune took place, the Jets had virtually no injuries on the team at all, particularly on 1st string lines. The Gang Green did suffer a major loss on the offensive line that we have mentioned since the first podcast, Pete “veteran” Kendall. Attempting to stray from that specific player, the Jets had entered this season with more experience for the returning veterans and kept the same coaching staff intact.

This scenario would seem ideal from a newcomers’ perspective and from a die-hard fan with higher expectations from the last several years that displayed playoff contention and appearances. However, this year is obviously an obstacle in the Mangenious-oriented team structure. Last year’s results proved to be an overachieving year with regards to the personnel and schedule. Mangini seemed to have been risen to an upper-echelon of coaches in the league.

The year 2007 has brought nothing but criticism on the entire team and coaching staff, showing nothing but inconsistency in execution and poor play-calling on both sides of the ball. There have been moments of shine but not one respectable second half effort this entire season.

Referring back to the linebacking core and its new leader, David Harris, the intelligent, physical linebacker from the great university of Michigan, has stepped in after the injury to our franchise focal point on defense and capitalized on his opportunity. One week prior to his first NFL start, Harris played respectably in short-term play. In his last 5 games including limited play, he has 28 tackles, 19 solo. Note that 17 of those were in last week’s game against Buffalo. The possession time was almost even, so this demonstrates excellent play.

Don’t get me wrong, I am a HUGE fan of Vilma, as you may have heard in the podcast, but this 6′2”, 243 lb. beast has been getting me excited since he was chosen 47th overall in this year’s draft. As you may know, I am a Wolverines fan and covet any prime talent from the school that is active in the league. Mr. Harris is showing me what its like to have picked a player with premier fortitude.