It can never be too early to discuss who will face the San Francisco 49ers in the team’s second year under Jim Harbaugh. Throughout the offseason, we’ll take a team-by-team look at the 49ers’ 2012 opponents and the offseason storylines for each team. Up next are the New York Jets, who are scheduled to host the 49ers in the fall, as they will face all four teams from the AFC East next season. View the 2012 schedule.
Team: New York Jets
When: Week 4 (Sept. 30)
2011 Record: 8-8 (6-2 home)
All-Time Series: 9-2 49ers
2011 Recap: While addressing reporters at the NFL Scouting Combine last week in Indianapolis, outspoken Jets head coach Rex Ryan took accountability for his team’s disappointing 8-8 season after guaranteeing a Super Bowl win. "It's something that I've been thinking about a great deal," Ryan told reporters. "Obviously, we had a terrible season. I take full responsibility for it. Part of that guarantee really contributed to it." Despite the team falling short of making the playoffs following three losses to end the year, Ryan said he’s looking forward to turning the page. New York has also replaced two of its top offensive assistants, coordinator Brian Schottenheimer and offensive line coach Bill Callahan, among a host of other coaching changes this offseason.
2012 Outlook: In a twist, the Jets have hired Tony Sparano to become its new offensive coordinator this season. Sparano was relieved of his duties as the head coach of AFC East rival Miami during the 2011 season before signing on with New York. Much of the talk from New York stems around quarterback Mark Sanchez, who will be under the microscope in his fourth season as a starting signal-caller. In 2011, Sanchez tossed 26 touchdowns against 18 interceptions. But with Sparano’s brand of offense, which often features a physical running game, perhaps the load will be lighter for Sanchez in 2012. The Jets are also reported to have interest in bringing back wide receiver Braylon Edwards, who spent part of the 2011 season with the 49ers following two years with New York. It will also be interesting to follow Bart Scott this offseason, as the veteran linebacker has reportedly been granted permission to seek a trade.
Three to Watch
CB Darelle Revis: The renowned cornerback earned his fourth straight Pro Bowl bid this season after hauling in four interceptions and maintaining his status as one of the best shutdown corners in the league. He was a key part to a Jets defense that ranked fifth in pass defense in 2011, giving up an average of 201 yards per game.LT D’Brickashaw Ferguson: In his sixth NFL season, Ferguson has established himself as one of the top blindside protectors in the league. Ferguson was named to this third straight Pro Bowl in 2011 and has since restructured his contract to give the Jets more cap room heading into the free agency period, which starts on March 13.
LB David Harris: On a team full of bright personalities, Harris has been a consistent, calming force in the middle of New York’s 3-4 defense. While he may not have the All-Pro accolades or Pro Bowl berths, Harris’ value to his team is undeniable, as evidenced by the four-year, $36 million contract he received in 2011.
2012 Opponents
Home
Arizona Cardinals
Buffalo Bills
Chicago Bears
Detroit Lions
Miami Dolphins
New York Giants
Seattle Seahawks
St. Louis Rams
Road
Arizona Cardinals
Green Bay Packers
Minnesota Vikings
New England Patriots
New Orleans Saints
New York Jets
Seattle Seahawks
St. Louis Rams
Season tickets for the 2012 season are officially sold out. Click here to join the priority wait list.
