New York Jets rookie quarterback Geno Smith is gradually becoming a fan favorite and reportedly a favorite of the Jets organization. One of his high points has been the ability to avoid turnovers and at least minimally neglect looking like a first-year player. However on Monday, according to ESPNNewYork.com’s Rich Cimini, looking like a first year player is exactly what Smith did.
Smith made multiple mistakes Monday and had issues during a 7-on-7 red zone drill. He threw one interception that ricocheted off wide receiver Braylon Edwards’ hands and was caught by safety Antonio Allen. A couple plays later, while the offense was at the goal line, he threw an interceptions to linebacker Nick Bellmore. He did not see Bellmore and threw a pass right over the middle.
During team drills, Smith produced better results completing four of his six passes. Veteran quarterback Mark Sanchez had a good day going 6-for-9. Neither quarterback had a long completion.
The Jets held their annual Green and White scrimmage on Saturday. Sanchez went 6-for-11 and threw for 93 yards with one touchdown. Smith went 9-for-16 and threw for 77 yards.
Sanchez also threw a pass which was picked off by cornerback Antonio Cromartie—which prompted boos from some spectators. Cromartie was not a fan of the booing.
“I think that’s bullcrap,” Cromartie told the New York Daily News. “My thing is, if you’re going to be a fan, be a fan. You don’t come out here and boo anybody.”
Sanchez was not as bothered by the reaction to the interception.
“Oh, shoot, I don’t care,” he said. “That’s the way it goes.”
Although the Green and White scrimmage provided a glimpse into the two quarterbacks’ play, fans and analysts won’t be able to get a good handle on where the QBs stand until the Jets’ first preseason game.
That game will be played against the Detroit Lions on August 9 at Ford Field.
