This defense has a very different feel than last year.
The Jets showed more pass rush last weekend than they had in all of 2007 but I wouldn't classify it as anywhere near 'dominant' from that one week. Pace did look fantastic. On his sack, he raced from the ROLB position and met Pennington on his fifth step. He's very fast for a big guy and will give Tackles a lot of trouble this year. Bryan Thomas accounted for two of the sacks but he's so inconsistent that there's no way to tell if he'll do it again next week.
One note about Gholston is that while he didn't get the stats, he was involved on a number of plays and had Pennington all wrapped up on a Sean Ellis' sack (Ellis got to Chad's ankles a split second earlier). He's got a lot to learn but the speed and strength are there and he could bust out later this year.
On the other hand, Harris and Rhodes weren't involved much in the rush last week (busy keeping the run under control) and that could change in blitz packages as well.
Bottom line, I honestly don't know what to expect from the Jets this week other than to assume they will test Cassell early and if he doesn't get the quick dumps off, he could be in for a long day.
One last point, Kris Jenkins is the unsung hero of the defense this year. As you guys well know, the NT doesn't get the glory, but Jenkins is playing with great enthusiasm and he made short work of the Dolphins interior line on Sunday. Other than the second Safety position, there really aren't any glaring weaknesses to go after.
Judging from what I've read, many here won't believe this, but I was *really* eager to see this defense go against Brady. Not complaining as I appreciate the advantage we have now, and nothing is a sure thing anyway, but it sure would have been a heck of a game to see.
