Rex Ryan and the Jets missed the playoffs for a second straight year.
Rex Ryan was involved in a car accident last week. Reuters

On Thanksgiving, it appeared that the New York Jets season was over. They were blown out by the New England Patriots in one of the most embarrassing losses in franchise history.

At 4-7. Rex Ryan’s club was on the verge of one of the most disappointing Jets seasons in years. Now, just a few weeks later, New York is alive in the AFC playoff race.

New York has won its last two games to go to 6-7. Losses from the Cincinnati Bengals have put them just 1.5 games out of the final wild card spot. On Monday, the Jets have a chance to cut that deficit down to one game.

The Jets will visit the Tennessee Titans in the last Monday Night Football game of 2012. Kick-off is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. ET on ESPN. You can watch a free live stream online at espn3.com.

The Titans opened the week as 2.5-point favorites, but the betting line as moved in the Jets favor. They are now giving Tennessee one point at most Las Vegas sportsbooks.

Despite their short winning streak, the Jets are still struggling offensively. They’ve scored 24 points combined in their last two games, and Mark Sanchez was replaced in New York’s win against the Arizona Cardinals.

If the Jets are ever going to break out offensively, it will probably be against the Titans. Tennessee has the worst defense in the NFL, allowing a league worst 29.7 points per game.

The Titans are out of the postseason picture with a 4-9 record. Other than playing the role of spoiler, their biggest concern is the development of second-year quarterback Jake Locker. He’s battled injuries this year, playing just eight games.

Defensively, the Jets have played well in their past few games. New York will look to continue that trend against a struggling Locker. He’s thrown seven interceptions in his last three starts.

Tim Tebow will be active for the Jets after missing the past three games with broken ribs. However, it’s not likely that he will get any playing time.

Prediction: Even in the Jets recent wins, they haven’t been particularly impressive. The Titans have had a few offensive outbursts this season, including three games of at least 35 points. If Mark Sanchez can’t throw a few touchdown passes, New York’s playoff hopes might end in Tennessee.

Predicted Score: Tennessee 27, New York 13

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