The New York Jets have announced that quarterback Mark Sanchez will start the preseason opener against the Detroit Lions. Rookie Geno Smith will come off the bench as the second signal-caller, but he will also work with the first team.
Jets will rotate Geno Smith, Mark Sanchez with 1st team vs. Lions
Sanchez will get the start in the Jets’ first preseason game, but Smith will also see time with the first team.
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Sanchez and Smith have been battling for the starting job all summer. Smith appeared to have the edge on Sanchez in training camp, particularly after Sanchez’s poor performance in the Green and White scrimmage that drew boos from Jets fans. The New York Daily News suggests that Smith just needs to look “sharp” in preseason to earn the starting position.
Follow the Jets' QB battle at Gang Green Nation
Since it’s only the first preseason game, Sanchez may play as little as one or two series before making way for Smith, so fans probably shouldn’t read too much into this move. The third preseason game, considered a “dress rehearsal” for the starters, should shed more light as to who will line up under center in Week 1.
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