If you didn't expect the New York Jets' passing attack to lead them to the cusp of the playoffs this season, don't worry, you weren't the only one.
Even receiver Brandon Marshall didn't think they'd be this prolific.
"I knew we had a great defense, and I thought if they came together in a new system, we would have a chance," Marshall said Friday, via ESPN.com. "I didn't have high expectations in our passing game, but I knew we had a great formula with a great defense and a running offense. And so this has been a true gift for us, to really put together the passing game and try to make a complete offense."
Marshall has been magnificent this season and this week was voted the team's MVP.
For all the accolades Ryan Fitzpatrick has deservedly received for his play during the Jets' five-game winning streak, it's been Marshall who has keyed the offense.
The big-bodied pass-catcher needs just 59 receiving yards to set a Jets single-season record, currently held by Don Maynard (1,434 yards in 1967). Marshall's 13 touchdown grabs are one shy of tying Maynard (1965) and Art Powell (1960) for most in franchise history.
Both Eric Decker and Marshall have caught TD passes in the same game eight times this season, a new NFL record. Their 24 combined touchdowns are the most by any Jets duo in a single season. The tandem's 176 combined receptions this season are the most in the NFL.
The Jets are one win from a playoff berth, thanks in large part to Marshall's game-changing plays. The wideout might not have expected a prolific passing season from the outset, but he, Fitzpatrick and Decker delivered one.
