Geno Smith is at a disadvantage in the New York Jets quarterback competition due to his sprained ankle. After Wednesday’s practice, that disadvantage may have increased, according to ESPNNewYork.com.
Smith threw three interceptions during the practice.
"That was Geno's worst day, obviously," Jets head coach Rex Ryan said. "The ankle is part of it. That's way too many picks. He didn't look comfortable today. It was a bad day. We've seen guys have bad days, but this was a really bad day.
The word Ryan used to describe the practice? “Brutal.”
Five-year quarterback Mark Sanchez, Smith’s competition, went 10-for-13 with a touchdown pass during the Jets’ first preseason game at the Detroit Lions. He also threw a pick-six. Smith went 6-for-7 with 47 yards before he twisted his ankle during a scramble.
Sanchez started the game against the Lions and Smith was supposed start the Jets’ second preseason game against he Jacksonville Jaguars. However, the ankle injury and the poor performance may hurt his chances, giving Sanchez his second straight start.
When the 22-year old rookie was asked if he wanted to start the game he said, “No comment.”
He also maintained his ankle was not the reason for his recent practice woes. “Not one bit,” Smith said.
Despite the current separation in progress, Ryan isn’t ready to choose a quarterback yet.
"To definitely win the job, there needs to be more evidence," the Jets head coach said referring to his rookie. "We have to see more of both guys to have a better answer at this point."
ESPNNewYork.com’s Rich Cimini reported the Jets privately want Geno Smith to win the starting job after a dismal year from Mark Sanchez (66.9 passer rating, 18 interceptions and 14 fumbles in 2012). However, Sanchez has proved that he can manage the offence well enough to help the Jets get to the postseason. (The team went to the NFC Championship game in Sanchez’s rookie season in 2009 and again in 2010.)
If Smith’s ankle continues to be a problem and he continues to put up terrible practices, the Jets may be forced to go with Sanchez in Week 1.
The Jets game against the Jaguars will be played Saturday, Aug. 17 at 7:30 p.m. ET. The matchup will take place at MetLife stadium.
