Jerky Acceleration '00 Passat GLS - Dangerous

I have a 00 Passat GLS.

When i accelerate, whether its hot/cold/wet/dry outside, the car almost stalls. I have not had it stall yet, usually out of pure fear, i drop the pedal to the floor, and i catches up.

I have had this happen at very inopportune times, like joining traffic. The car does a sort of studder step.

I know little about new cars, but i feel like the fuel or air aren't making it through nicely.

(repeat i know little about this car)
If you are looking at the front of the engine compartment near the fan, there is a black corrugated ventilation duct. I took that off and realized that there was a ton of leaves, dead bugs, etc in the trap near the fender. I took a shop vac to it, and thought i fixed my problem.... thought.

It seems better, but still not even 85% right.

I am thinking that once i find the darn air filter i will change that, and also change the plugs.

I have read about an intercooler line? that might be loose. I have no idea what that is, or where to find it.

Any suggestions would be appreciated. This is a lease with 6 months left so i'm not looking to bring it into a shop and pay all that.

Thanks,
Greg

the air filter is on the passenger front side of the engine right after that pipe you removed. Its hard to get out/ in w/o a 2nd hand holding the airbox up.