Geno Smith has been improving each day in practice and Mark Sanchez is noticing. After Rex Ryan described one of Smith's practices as brutal, he has reportedly stepped his game as training camp comes to a close. While the Jets have yet to name a starting quarterback for the final preseason game, but Sanchez believes it will be Smith that gets the go this weekend.
"I'm assuming [Geno will start], but they haven't said," Sanchez told media.
Could the veteran know something everyone else does not? The final preseason game is normally used as one last dress rehearsal for teams before getting prepared for Week 1 of the season. If there was a quarterback competition going on, the guy who was going to start Week 1 normally starts the final preseason game.
Ryan is not giving out too many hints. He has been happy with what both quarterbacks have shown in practice. Smith is currently healing from an ankle injury, but has been back at practice full force and will be ready to play this weekend whether it is in a starting role or not.
"I think both guys looked good today, but we'll see again how everything is tomorrow. But we're not ready to do that yet. We haven't discussed anything as far as that goes right now," Ryan said.
Last week things were looking bad for Smith. He had injured his ankle in the preseason game. He followed that up with a practice where he threw four interceptions. However, on Wednesday he completed 15 of 16 passes.
"I wouldn't say it was my best day. I think, like I said, overall every single day I've been getting better. Whether it's been a good day or a bad day, it's about progression," Smith said.
Smith spent most of Wednesday with the first-team offense while Sanchez took a backseat with the second team. He finished the day going 10-for-14 with three sacks. Both quarterbacks have been inconsistent at best throughout training camp and preseason games. That type of performance is not making Ryan's decision any easier.
Smith understands the competition is still wide open and he plans on taking advantage of it. The rookie said any time he is given the chance to take a snap, he makes the most of it.
Ryan expects to announce this week's starter by Thursday. Whoever gets named could possibly be the starter for the rest of the season depending on their performance.
