Wilson: Mangini rooting for Jets

Eric Mangini has a big rooting interest in this weekend's AFC championship game.

The former Jets coach is pulling for the JETS, Jets, Jets, Jets!

Mangini told the New York Daily News that he's not bitter about being fired and he's hoping they beat the top-seeded Indianapolis Colts on Sunday.

"I do take a lot of pride in how they are doing," said Mangini, who now coaches the Cleveland Browns. "Not just in how they are playing, but the type of people they are. That locker room is loaded with good guys. I am happy with their success. I feel I contributed to it.

"I think they got a great shot this weekend. I think New York is playing really well defensively. If they can run effectively, keep Peyton (Manning) off the field, control the clock, get turnovers, they got a great chance. They definitely have to avoid turnovers. Peyton doesn't give you a lot of chances."

Fired by the Jets after two winning seasons in three seasons, Mangini said he's not holding any grudges.

"I want them to be successful, I am happy for their success," Mangini said. "In having a chance to address those guys when I got let go, I told them what I said all season - I really liked the group of guys in the locker room. They are good people who work hard. I told them one of the most important things to do is embrace the new guy coming in.

"I didn't know it was going to be Rex. I really like Rex a lot. His brother (Rob) is on my staff. I've gotten to know Rex. Buddy (Ryan) was in town before the second-to-last game. I'm glad the Jets are experiencing the success that I thought we could have."

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