New York Jets vs. Philadelphia Eagles: A Few Key Matchups to Watch For

Ladies and gentlemen, I don't think I need to stress how important this upcoming game between the New York Jets and the Philadelphia Eagles is. We all know what the implications are.

The Jets have taken us fans through one helluva roller-coaster ride this season. But, they're almost there. After dominating the Kansas City Chiefs last Sunday, they are in control of their own destiny.

Three more wins and they're in.

First up are the Philadelphia Eagles. Don't let their record fool you—the Eagles have a lot of talented players, and it will not be an easy game.

Here are a few key matchups the Jets need to win in order for things to swing their way.

Mark Sanchez vs. Eagles Pass-Rush

Fact: Mark Sanchez has taken some big hits this season.

No wonder Sanchez has looked jittery at times.

Sanchez needs to be cool under pressure because he will be facing a tough Eagles pass rush (Jason Babin with 15 sacks and Trent Cole with nine). Make wise decisions, don't get happy feet and don't force the pass. Slant routes will help Sanchez in getting the ball out quickly, but if the pocket collapses, take off. Eagles' DE's Babin and Cole line up wide, toward the outside, so Sanchez should take advantage and step inside and get a couple of yards.

Using screens would slow down the pass rush. It was effective against the Chiefs and the other good pass-rushing teams like the Redskins and the Broncos.

The Jets should also use their "heavy" package and bring out Vladimir Ducasse like they did against the Chiefs. It'll slow the pass rush down and give Sanchez that extra second or two.

Shonn Greene vs. Eagles Run D

Greene could easily surpass 100 yards in this game. The Eagles' run defense isn't really good at stopping the run (it allows 4.4 yards per carry). Pass the D-linemen and Greene should have an easy time getting a lot of yardage on carries.

Greene has revitalized his run game. In the past three games, Greene has rushed for 295 yards, averaging five yards per carry, and four touchdowns. He needs to step up again. Greene has shown patience waiting for the O-line to dominate the line of scrimmage, which is needed in Jets' zone-blocking scheme, then taking off, gaining a few more yards per carry than he did in the beginning of the season.

Also, Greene's pass-catching ability has to be on in this game against the Eagles. It will come in handy against the Eagles' strong pass rush.

Wayne Hunter vs. Jason Babin

Jason Babin, with 15 sacks on the season, must be looking forward to his matchup against weak link Wayne Hunter.

Hunter needs to play his best game. He hasn't fared well against better pass-rushers this season, but most of Sanchez's sacks have come from the right side—Hunter's side. Hunter will probably need some help, and this is where the heavy packages with Ducasse will come in handy.

David Harris vs. Michael Vick

David Harris is an important part of the linebacker corps. We know that. His play will be key in stopping Michael Vick and the Eagles offense.

Vick is a dangerous player that can hurt you with his arm or legs. If Vick feels the pocket collapsing he will take off and he has the speed to gain some big yardage. This is where Harris comes in. I expect Harris to spy on Vick every once in a while, and his role in containing Vick will be critical. Harris can also lay the big hit, and doing so against Vick, who has fumbled quite a few times, can be key.

The Jets' D-line will have its hands full with "Shady" McCoy, so Harris' run support will be important as well.

LeSean McCoy vs. Jets' Defensive Line

LeSean McCoy leads the league in rushing touchdowns, and he is also second in the league in yardage. He is very dangerous and can make defenders miss with his speed and quickness.

Sione Pouha, Mike DeVito and Muhammad Wilkerson need to turn in their best game on Sunday; they need to stop or at least disrupt the Eagles' dangerous running back. Dominate the line of scrimmage and get to the backfield as quickly as possible.

The D-linemen and the linebackers also need to watch out for the screens. McCoy is a major threat out of the backfield and can hurt you. He has 45 receptions for 310 yards and three touchdowns this season so far.