Jets coach Rex Ryan looks a little tired this week. You would be too if your job was to stop Tom Brady.
The Patriots quarterback has been flawless lately. He has thrown 11 touchdowns and no interceptions in his last four games, starting with the 29-26 overtime win over the Jets last month.
“He’s a machine back there,” Ryan said. “Yet he’s passionate and a fiery leader and all that type of stuff. You wish he was just a machine. But his competitive side elevates his team as well. That’s what you get in those once in a generation type quarterbacks. He’s just a special guy.’
It was pointed out to Ryan that his defenses have had some success against Brady, even in that meeting on Oct. 21 before Brady led the Patriots down the field to tie the game and force overtime.
“When it mattered most he delivered and they got the victory,” Ryan said. “We know each other so well. We know enough of Tom Brady that if he knows exactly what you are in then you are in trouble. You’ve got to make adjustments. You’ve got to be multiple. That’s hard to do.”
The Patriots offense is clicking on all cylinders.
“You look at the numbers and [say] ‘hey, they’re struggling in this. They’re fourth in the league in this category. So that’s something we really can take advantage of.’ ” Ryan said sarcastically. “You look at them offensively. He doesn’t get sacked. They don’t turn the ball over. They lead the league in points. Rushing’s in the top 5. It’s like they’re … man, I don’t know.”