Two Bills Drive

‘The Bills clearly have played better with Van Pelt than they did with Johnson. It’s led to a quarterback controversy that no one expected.’

‘Hackett called as masterful a game as Vinny Testaverde pitched in Sunday night’s thrilling, 29-28 comeback win against the Indianapolis Colts. The Jets ignited for 451 total net yards, their most since they rang up 524 yards in a 34-20 season-ending loss to the Baltimore Ravens last Dec. 24.’

‘The toss sweep has become the Bills’ signature running play.’

‘…he realized the main reason the award went to him was because he suffered a broken right leg, mended with a plate and screws, and came back much sooner than expected.’

‘Only one game, against the Miami Dolphins, with a noticeably large number of fights and ejections.’

‘The chemistry that has long existed between quarterback and receiver was obvious against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday night, when Testaverde hit Chrebet on 8 passes for 118 yards.’

‘One of Bill Parcells’ first personnel moves as Jets general manager in 2000 was signing cornerback Marcus Coleman to a five-year, $20 million contract. Coleman, coming off a breakthrough season, appeared ticketed for stardom. Now he may get a ticket to ride — out of town.’

‘So, ditching the "West Coast" moniker, what the Jets have done is build a running game that’s consistent and a weapon, protect the ball and sprinkle in the passing game as a complement.’

‘The Jets are 9-5 with a chance to clinch a playoff berth this week at home against Buffalo. They can win the AFC East and get a first-round bye if they win their last two. They are in this position for a lot of reasons, not the least of which is an old man playing quarterback like a kid.’

‘The Jets’ offense and its embattled coordinator had their most creative and effective game of the year in Sunday’s 29-28 victory in Indianapolis.’

‘…Hackett’s offense shined like never before in a 29-28 victory over the Colts, a victory that all but assured the Jets (9-5) of a playoff berth.’

‘"The Jets are scrappy," Curtis Martin said in ESPN’s slick pregame production. "We don’t care if we win by one, we don’t care if we win by 50. We just want to get it done."’

‘"I like it because the guys are having fun," Edwards said. "They are playing loose and having fun and that’s how you have to play. You can’t play tight. That’s what I told them: ‘You can’t be tight; you just have to go play. Let it all hang out. Play football like you know how.’"’

‘But be of good cheer: The reward could be the second overall selection in the 2002 draft.’

‘The Bills will be back to work tomorrow, though, getting ready for their game against the New York Jets on Sunday in the Meadowlands. And then the harsh reality will hit them again.’