Another day, another report on the New York Jets' quarterback competition. Geno Smith and Mark Sanchez are doing everything they can to prove they are the team's best option at quarterback. Rex Ryan is looking to make the decision as soon as possible so it is important for both players to shine early. Smith and Sanchez hold very different skill sets and they recognize that.
Sanchez told media that Smith can simply do more than he can. Bold statement. Sanchez is more of a traditional quarterback. He operates well from the pocket whereas Smith as the speed and athleticism to move outside and operate the read-option from time to time. As camp kicks off, it is Smith shining with the first team offense and not Sanchez.
When Sanchez led the first-team, he struggled, throwing an interception in his second-straight practice. Smith has yet to create any turnovers so far through five practices. While it is far too premature to name a starter, it is Smith with the leg up.
"For you (reporters), it's your job, but it's funny to see everybody else charting stuff," Sanchez said. "Everything is under scrutiny. There's a ton of pressure. That's the way you like it, that's the way you play this position."
Sanchez noted that Smith is "very talented" but is not letting that get to him during practice, simply staying focused on the things he can control. One person loving Smith on the field is Ryan who thinks the quarterback will let them open up the playbook more, like Tim Tebow was supposed to. Ryan is remaining committed to having the quarterback run the ball no matter who is under center. Ryan understands the Jets failed at that plan the first time.
"I think if that's the only thing you do with that position, why don't you just leave a running back in, a guy that's trained to do it?" Ryan said. "If you're going to have a quarterback do it, like a (Colin) Kaepernick or somebody like that, it becomes more of a weapon because you know it's not just Tebow coming and he's going to run the ball. That's kind of where we were last year."
The Jets new quarterback coach David Lee is a Wildcat guru of sorts which could help Smith get named the starter sooner rather than later. If the rookie shows the ability to adapt to the new offense quickly, Sanchez better get used to holding a clipboard.
