It’s as though it were scripted: 41-year-old Vinny Testaverde, on the verge of retirement after going unsigned this season, returns as the Jets starter this Sunday versus the Bucs, the team where he started his career.

If there’s such a thing as karmic justice, Vinny will throw for 300 yards and a bunch of touchdowns in a trounce over Tampa Bay. It’s small compensation for ruining his career — all those INTs he accumulated in the orange creamsicle uniform pretty much blow his chances at entering the Hall of Fame — but it’ll provide momentary respite.

No, there’s not much chance of that. It’s doubtful the Jets can even beat the Buccaneers, and if they do, Vinny probably won’t be the reason. But here’s hoping.

UPDATE 10/10/05: Karma, baby. No 300 yards, no touchdown explosion, but Testaverde provided just enough stability to get the Jets the win, 14-12. Fitting.