Regardless of an allegiance to a specific team, one thing football fans can appreciate about this year's New York Jets is this: They are who they are, they stay true to their identity, and stick to their plan.

After their 17-14 upset over the Chargers in the divisional round of the playoffs, head coach Rex Ryan described their style as "old-fashioned ground-and-pound football, throw completions and play great defense." He also said, "Sometimes when you hit the quarterback, the whole team feels it."

One thing Ryan didn't mention, but certainly could have, is exceptional special teams play. A terrific punt that was downed inside the 5-yard line helped set up a game-changing interception in the third quarter.

A solid lesson can be learned from watching the Jets.

It's not necessarily that every team has to play the same style, but more that good things can happen when an identity is so clearly formed and the coaches remain committed to it.

As for how this could relate to the Patriots, their offense has adopted an ever-changing identity in recent years. The idea is that they will morph into a different style on a week-to-week basis based on the strength and weakness of the opposition. That's a challenging identity to adopt because it means you have to be strong in all areas.

Meanwhile, the 3-4 defense wouldn't be considered an attacking unit, but one that has traditionally been tough against the run before relying on its ability to come through in critical situations.

When Bill Belichick completes his review of the Patriots' season, then considers changes for 2010, it will be interesting to see if there are noticeable changes to the team's identity.