Technically, it IS possible to make the playoffs in the NFL without getting past the Patriots. Though admittedly, it's tougher if we can't win either of those games.
As far as the Jets go, they've made some moves that excite people in February without exciting them in December. Lots of older players to come in and learn a new system as their bodies start to turn, all without addressing their most pressing need at quarterback.
Miami, well, yes, they do have Bill Parcells, but while the Tuna is talented, he's not magic. He's also relatively hands off in Miami - he's not their coach, and the Tuna the GM still has a few question marks - bringing in Vinny and Drew in Dallas before getting lucky with Tony Romo, etc. In any case, that was a terrible team last year; they've got a long way to go before they scare me.
8-8 would be a disappointment this year - the team is improving from a youthful, injury plagued season and STILL got to 7-9.
Welcome to the Stadium Wall.