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Friday, August 14, 2009

First Impressions of the Mark Sanchez Era

The New york Jets lost their first game of the preseason 23-20 to the St. Louis Rams. But despite the loss in Rex Ryan's debut as Jets' HC, the biggest story has to be the performance of Rookie Quarterback Mark Sanchez.

Sanchez completed 3 out of his 4 passing attempts for 88 yards. The big play came on his first passing attempt when he connected on a 48 yard bomb to David Clowney from his own endzone.

Sanchez then threw two short passes to Dustin Keller -- who is going to emerge as an elite target -- and the 2nd-year tight end turned them into 14 and 26 yard gains.

The only pass that fell incomplete was a tough one to Brad Smith. Sanchez's only drive of the game led to a 1-yard touchdown by Thomas Jones.



I said it on the air today. What I wanted to see from Sanchez was poise and confidence. And behind an offensive line that was missing 60% of its starters, I was a bit worried. But the line held up, and Mark Sanchez displayed what he could do when given time.

He was efficient against a 1st string NFL defense. That's about all I asked for, and I'm thrilled to have received it. I don't think any Jets fan is disappointed with Sanchez's 1st NFL action.

The only problem I have with tonight's game was the amount of playing time Sanchez got. A guy could look great in one drive, but I want to see how he follows it up. Remember, he's a rookie. He needs as much game experience as possible. The sample size was too small to officially name Mark Sanchez the Week 1 starter today.

With that, it seems like Kellen Clemens is moving closer to his familiar backup status. It's Sanchez's job and Rex Ryan knows it. It's just a matter of time.


--Max Caster

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