Rex Ryan is like his father in many ways; There is the defensive scheme; the brash quotes to the media; the shapely physique.
One area Rex has quickly distanced himself from Buddy is playoff success. Ryan’s Jets already have two more playoff victories than Buddy won in seven seasons as a head coach.
After watching all year from the couch, Newsday’s Jim Baumbach writes that the elder Ryan will head to Indianapolis to watch his first Jets game of the season in person. (Subscription required for link.) Travel is difficult for the 76-year-old former Eagles and Cardinals coach, but the game is only a three hour drive from his Kentucky home.
Based on comments from training camp, Buddy isn’t surprised on the Jets’ success. Remarking on the strength of the offensive and defensive lines, Buddy said then, “I think you can near guarantee yourself a Super Bowl if they stay healthy.” (Sound familiar?)
The presence of a Ryan on the sideline is a good omen for the Jets. Buddy’s first gig in the NFL was as a linebackers coach with the Jets during the 1968 season.
They pulled off a rather memorable upset to cap that season.