By Katie Strang
Probably the only thing to soften the blow of last year's week 2 17-24
loss to New England was the highlight-reel worthy 71-yard play by Jets
receiver Jerricho Cotchery. After pulling down a pass from Pennington
and getting sandwiched by two Patriots defenders, Cotchery whose knee
never touched the ground, rolled off Pats defensive back Eugene Wilson
and ran in easily for a touchdown.
"It was a good play but we didn't win that game," the ever-modest
Cotchery said, although he admitted it's not a bad play to be
remembered by, and one he hopes typifies his style of play. "I
identify with [that play] because that's what I pride my self on,
finishing plays. That's one of our values that we have as a team."
Cotchery proved himself a playmaker against New England last season;
he had two of his best games against the Pats, totaling 191 receiving
yards, and two touchdowns. There's a slim chance Belichick will make
the same mistake overlooking Cotchery's role in the Jets 1-2 receiving
tandem, but increased pressure on the Jets primary receivers will
undoubtedly provide opportunities for receivers Justin McCareins, Brad
Smith and rookie preseason standout Chansi Stuckey to make a dent on
the Patriots secondary, who will be forced to compensate for the loss
of safety Rodney Harrison in the backfield.
"We have a lot of good players on our team and our options are there,"
Cotchery said. "I know I have a lot of opportunities to make some
plays."
No pressure for Jerricho, but I'm sure given his reputation against
New England, Jets fans will be expecting him to do just that.