Series record

The Colts lead 40-28 overall, but the Jets have won both playoff matchups, including Super Bowl III.

Last time: Thomas Jones and rookie Shonn Greene combined for 200 rushing yards and a touchdown, as the Jets won 29-15 in Indianapolis to end the Colts' bid at an undefeated season in Week 16. Part of the decision to ditch perfection was self-imposed, as the Colts, holding a 9-3 advantage at halftime, rested many of their starters in the second half.

Three things to watch

Greene's gang?: In the regular season, the Jets' No. 1 rushing attack used a multiple-back system that featured the veteran Jones. But in this postseason New York has turned to its rookie, Greene, who has resoundingly answered the call with 263 rushing yards (135 and 128, respectively) and two touchdowns. His yardage total is the second most by a rookie in his first two playoff games. Will the Jets rely on him again or will Jones, who has proven capable all season, get back in the mix?

Third-and-long may be key: Indianapolis has a similar makeup to San Diego in that both offenses have high-powered pass attacks but weak ground games. In the divisional round, the Chargers' 31st-ranked rushing attack had little success, which kept them in repeated unsuccessful third-and-long situations (Chargers were just four of 13 on third down). If the Jets control Indy's league-worst ground game and put the Colts in similar third-and-longs, they may give themselves a better chance at another upset.

It's Manning's time: Indianapolis QB Peyton Manning is coming off a pedestrian performance against the Ravens, going 30 of 44 for 246 yards, two touchdowns and an interception. Will that be enough against the Jets' top-ranked defense, which is No. 1 against the pass? If the Colts are to advance to the Super Bowl, you'd better believe it'll take a top-tier performance from Manning to get them there.

Notes

The No. 5 seed is 0-2 in AFC Championship Games since 1990. The Jets are the No. 5 seed. ... New York is playing in its first conference title game since 1998. ... The Colts are looking to advance to their second Super Bowl in four years. They beat the Bears, 29-17, in Super Bowl XLI in Miami, site of this year's game.

-- Simon Samano


http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/201001...T20/jets@colts