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Law dares NE to throw at him

JETS' NEW DB 'DARES' PATS TO THROW HIS DIRECTION
By MARK CANNIZZARO

November 12, 2008

Ty Law is on board as a Jet, despite having not played an NFL game in almost a year, supposedly ready to play in tomorrow night's JetsNew York Jets -Patriots clash at Gillette Stadium for first place in the AFC East.

The timing was odd. But isn't that what Jets-Patriots weeks are all about?

This is merely another chapter in the thick book of trickery and mind games that has characterized this rivalry of hate, disdain and jealousy.

Law yesterday wasn't only talking like he's a lock to play against his former team tomorrow night, he was already playfully talking trash - daring Bill Belichick to throw at him.

"I would throw at me, too," Law said. "I'm just coming back, haven't played, they call me 'old man.' Hell, throw at me. That's what any smart coach would do. I relish the opportunity and look forward to the challenge."

Belichick said yesterday of Law: "He's a good player. We know Ty. He's very competitive with good ball skills. You have to be careful throwing around him."

As for Jets coach Eric Mangini, who certainly would prefer a lower profile from Law, he was much closer to the vest with his plans for the defensive back.

"We'll see how it goes [in practice]," Mangini said. "I think there's definitely a chance [Law will play]. We're looking for him to come in, play a role on the team, just like everyone else."

Law, 34, played for the Jets in 2005 under Herman Edwards, collected 10 INTs and went to the Pro Bowl. He played two more years with the Chiefs but hasn't since any action since 2007.

"I'm just happy I'm able to come out here, and whatever they ask me to do I'll do," Law said. "I feel like a rookie again. I'm excited about it.

"I've got to get in where I fit in and eventually probably be more than just a role player."

That, of course, would mean he's gunning for rookie Dwight Lowery's job. Lowery has been starting since the beginning of the season and, after a strong start, has had problems of late. In fact, he was benched a couple of times in recent weeks.

Lowery, mature beyond his years, took the Law signing in stride. The rookie acknowledged the signing of Law may be a reflection of his recent struggles.

"Yeah. Why wouldn't it be?" Lowery said. "I'm a young guy and things are going to happen. In this situation here, I'll just take it as something to learn from. I honestly feel like this situation couldn't be any better for me and the Jets, so it works for us both.

"[Law] has played in the league a long time, done great things. Any time you bring in a player of that caliber, it can be nothing but a positive thing, especially for the younger players."

One thing that didn't occur upon Law's arrival was a number switch. Law has always worn No. 24, but CB Darrelle RevisDarrelle Revis , who grew up in Law's hometown of Aliquippa, Pa., wears No. 24.

"That was never even part of the discussion," Mangini said. "It was important to Ty that Darrelle keep No. 24."

Law is going with No. 22, his old college number.

How No. 22 does tomorrow night, whether it's chasing Wes Welker around in the slot or whatever he's asked to do, will go a long way toward labeling this a smart move or the curious one is appears to be on the surface.

mark.cannizzaro@nypost.com