Jets linebacker Josh Martin is having the most productive year of his professional career, while his alma mater Columbia is off to its first 6-0 start since 1996.
Martin, who plays both special teams and defense and had an impressive sack last week, has done his best to follow the Lions' historic season. He attended their homecoming game — a 34-31 overtime victory over former Ivy League champion Penn — two weeks ago.
In his three years with Columbia (2010-12), the team went 8-22. But Martin — the only player from Columbia currently on an NFL roster — undoubtedly has helped contribute to the program's rise, just by making it as far as he has.
Martin said he is hopeful his former squad will finish the job they started.
"Everyone knows that this isn't Columbia as they've known it in the past," he said. "[I would think] the expectation is to go undefeated for the season.
Cornerback Buster Skrine (concussion), offensive lineman Brandon Shell (neck), and tight end Jordan Leggett (knee) have all been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Falcons.
Brent Qvale will replace Shell at right tackle, while coach Todd Bowles would not reveal who will start in place of Skrine.
"That's game plan stuff, we won't discuss that," he said.
Defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson (shoulder, toe), who did not practice Friday, is listed as questionable.
Linebacker Darron Lee was hit with two fines from last week's game: $36,464 for an unnecessary roughness on Dolphins quarterback Jay Cutler and $9,115 for a face-mask penalty.
Wide receiver Robby Anderson was also fined $12,154 for throwing his helmet.