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Rex Ryan confirms Geno Smith will start vs. Giants

The rookie quarterback will start on Saturday but no decision as to the regular season starter has been made.

Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Jets will finally get an extended look at quarterback Geno Smith, as the rookie has been named the starter for Saturday's preseason game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium. The Jets are hoping to get a good look at Smith before having to make the final decision on who will be the starting quarterback heading into the regular season, according to Kimberley A. Martin of Newsday.

More Jets coverage: Gang Green Nation

Smith was 6-of-7 for 47 yards in limited action in the first game of the preseason, taking over for incumbent Mark Sanchez in the second quarter. The rookie quarterback was then held out of the second preseason game because of an ankle injury, with coach Rex Ryan stating he wants to get a good look at Smith in what he's called an equal competition between the rookie and Sanchez.

According to the coaches, the battle for the starting position is still currently too close to call and it should be expected the starter might not be named until after the fourth preseason game. Sanchez has been inconsistent this preseason, completing 23-of-36 passes for 294 yards and two touchdowns, but continues to have issues with untimely turnovers. Saturday’s game against the Giants, in which Sanchez will also receive extensive playing time, will be a major deciding factor in who wins the starting job.

The Jets will open the season on Sept. 8 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

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