Down to a field goal: That's all, Folk!

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. - Nick Folk did Thursday what he usually does in practice, getting himself prepared for an assortment of game situations.

The Jets kicker told himself some kicks were potential game-winners, others were at the end of the first half and still others were on the opening drive.

"I'll try to put the pressure on myself that way, to feel it and get used to it,'' he said.

So, how'd it go? "I did well,'' he said. "I don't think I missed one. It was a good day.''

That's nice, as far as it goes. But he knows the only kicks that matter at this stage are the ones he will try Sunday in the AFC Championship Game.

They figure to matter a lot. Asked if he has confidence in Folk if it comes down to a field goal, coach Rex Ryan said, "I think that's what's going to happen. It's going to be one of those games.''

OK, but would he be confident? "I feel good about Nick Folk,'' he said.

Said special-teams coordinator Mike Westhoff, "If it comes down to Nick, I think he can make it."

Jets fans are not as sure after watching Folk follow his 32-yard game-winner over the Colts with a miss from 30 yards on the Jets' second possession against the Patriots.

Now he must contend with the notorious field and wind conditions at Heinz Field, traditionally a severe challenge for field-goal kickers but a building in which Folk is 4-for-4.

Folk said the trick is getting a good feel for the wind and footing before the game. He said he will bring four different shoes for his left (plant) foot.

The new turf put down after the NHL Winter Classic appeared to perform well last weekend. "I'm hoping it holds up again,'' Folk said. "You pray for the best.''

One of his most important decisions will be assessing range. He said at the expected frigid temperatures, the ball travels 8 to 10 yards less than in warm weather.

Folk knew the story of how the Jets lost a playoff game in Pittsburgh six years ago, when Doug Brien missed 47- and 43-yard tries in the final two minutes. But he didn't recall watching the game.

Westhoff, who grew up an avid Steelers fan in the Pittsburgh area, did remember. He was the Jets' special-teams coach then, too, and recalled the awful field conditions Brien faced.

He said Brien's misses took some time for him to get over. Now he is counting on Folk to replace that visit to Pittsburgh in his memory.