US News #s are from the matriculating class of 2002-- something that might not make much of a difference at most schools. At NJ, though, in 2003, they made all appplicants "in-state." Upon matricualting all MSIs are Jersey residents and pay the same fees. NJ adcom says that all applicants are review equally, though I bet they still give an edge to locals and those from surrounding areas.
Nevertheless, NJ is much easier to get into now "out-of-state." In fact, since the word is not out about this, it may be easier than ever and ever will be. Good luck to all applicants, and no one should pass up an interview at NJ these days.