NFL

5 questions for… Phil Simms

Giants great and host of “NFL Monday QB” on CBS Sports Network Phil Simms talks Jets-Patriots with The Post’s Justin Terranova. Simms will be calling the matchup between the two AFC East rivals, who have taken different paths to their 3-3 records.

Q: Was it surprising how well the Jets played against the Colts?

A: When I watched their game against the Texans, I realized they were closer than I anticipated to doing a lot of things really well. They probably should have beaten the Texans, but they weren’t there to make the plays that counted for the win. They did put it together against Indy and it was a step. It’s a different team, better competition this week, now can you add onto it? Can you still have the threat and the power to run it and make big pass plays?

Q: They didn’t need him to do much, but did you walk away impressed with Mark Sanchez, though he threw for just 82 yards?

A: I thought Mark Sanchez had thrown for about 170 yards. I was shocked the numbers weren’t bigger when I looked at the stat sheet. He played very well, if a play was there to be made, he made it, and he also created a couple, too. That’s what you ask of a quarterback. But in two weeks if things don’t go well, his game against the Colts will be viewed as a big negative because it’ll be, ‘oh, he just threw for 82 yards.’

Q: Both teams are 3-3, what weaknesses have you seen from the Patriots?

A: The overriding factor on this football team is if they can stop the pass, and they didn’t against Seattle and Baltimore. That was the issue last year, but they overcame it and went to the Super Bowl, but pass defense is still their biggest weakness, no question.

Q: And are the Jets equipped to take advantage of that?

A: They are going to have to find that run-and-pass mix. Just because there’s a defense struggling to stop the pass, doesn’t mean you can take advantage of it. The NFL so many times it is about matchups.

Q: What about the Jets stopping the Patriots’ passing offense, especially without Darrelle Revis?

A: I am not taking anything away from Cromartie at all, but it’s like part of Revis’ spirit went into Antonio. It’s unbelievable. You can’t help but notice him on the field. He is really and truly a special athlete, but the focus is on him more than ever. I see why, he deserves it.