Offense Leads the Way

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. —  Chad Pennington shouldered the blame for a disappointing performance last week against Pittsburgh, vowing to play better down the stretch.

He more than did that Sunday, throwing three touchdown passes in the New York Jets’ 37-14 victory over the Seattle Seahawks, turning the game into an offensive bonanza. The Jets had a season-high 482 yards and went over 200 yards on the ground for the fourth time this season.

Curtis Martin had 134 yards and two touchdowns, helping the Jets (10-4) keep their lead in the AFC wild-card standings heading into a crucial game against New England on Sunday.

The Jets looked nothing like the team that struggled in a 17-6 loss to Pittsburgh on Dec. 12. The Jets had their highest output since a 41-14 victory over Miami on Nov. 1, and second highest this season. They never punted.

“You could just tell after last week the offense was disappointed,” Coach Herman Edwards said. “I had a feeling they’d have a breakout game and they did.”

The defense also shut out an opponent in the second half for the seventh time this season. Linebacker Eric Barton had 11 tackles, a sack, forced fumble, fumble recovery and an interception.

The Seahawks (7-7) had another disappointing day in their bid to stay atop the NFC West, with three turnovers the Jets converted into 14 points. Shaun Alexander turned the ball over in the end zone late in the third quarter. He finished with 77 yards rushing.

Quarterback Matt Hasselbeck injured his right elbow later in the quarter and was replaced by Trent Dilfer. Coach Mike Holmgren said they would know more about the injury today.

Pennington was 18 for 24 for 253 yards. His rating was 148.1 after a 33.6 the previous week.

Martin had two first-half touchdown runs and established a team season record with 12 touchdowns rushing. He also set the team mark for career touchdowns rushing with 53, passing Emerson Boozer.