5 Questions with The Jet Press
Aug 24, 2013; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez (6) talks with quarterback Geno Smith (7) during a time out against the New York Giants during the second quarter of a preseason game at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
To get ready for tonight’s preseason finale, we’ve teamed up with the guys over at The Jet Press to have them answer a few of our questions regarding the state of their team and what we can expect to see out of them in tonights game. Thanks specifically to editor Alan Schechter for taking the time to answer these questions.
You can go over and check out my responses to their questions here.
ITI: What is the general vibe amongst the Jets fan base right now? High hopes or rebuilding year?
JP: The vibe is a cautious optimism in my view. We generally believe that this will be a rebuilding year, but the team has the potential to be better than people think. The wide receivers are a lot better than any of the “experts” are giving them credit for being. The offense is already benefiting from Marty Mornhinweg’s influence. The receivers are getting open better than they ever did under Tony Sparano.
The defense will always be good under Rex, so you never know.
ITI: Will we see any of Dee Milliner Thursday night? How is handling the task of being the heir to the Revis throne?
Aug 17, 2013; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets corner back Dee Milliner (27) drops back into coverage against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the first quarter of a preseason game at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
JP: Not sure if we will see any of Dee during the game. He has been hurt, and there haven’t been reports as to whether or not he has been practicing. As far as the Revis throne, that really isn’t Milliner’s role, that’s a big misconception. Cromartie has been moved into Darrelle’s role, not Milliner. Essentially, since Milliner is playing the CB2, he really is replacing Cromartie. How is he doing? Up and down so far. He has a tough time with the backpedal, for example. He’ll get there, but he is not ready yet.
ITI: Which one of the Jets 2013 draft pick or UDFA has made the biggest statement so far this pre-season? Who should Eagles fans be watching out for?
Jul 31, 2013; Cortland, NY, USA; New York Jets defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson (91) walks off the field following training camp at SUNY Cortland. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports
JP: I’ll give you two guys, one draft pick, and one UDFA. The draft pick is Sheldon Richardson. We were all surprised when the Jets chose Richardson, as the team was already pretty strong on the defensive line. However, he is already making plays, and showing why he was chosen. He is going to be lethal with Mo Wilkerson, Kenrick Ellis, and Quinton Coples. The UDFA that everyone should watch out for is Ryan Spadola. He’s a local kid from New Jersey, graduated from Lehigh. Not a lot has been expected of it, but this kid has worked his tail off. He has excelled in all phases, and has moved up the depth chart, spending time with the ones. This kid is one to watch, reminding some of Wayne Chrebet.
ITI: Where do you feel the Jets stand in the AFC East?
JP: I always say that you never know, as all of these teams are just a few plays away from having big years. Having said that, I think the team will be in the middle of the pack in the AFC East. If they can go 7-9, 8-8, the season has to be considered a big success for coach Ryan and company.
ITI: Is Geno Smith the future of the franchise?
Aug 24, 2013; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith (7) throws pass during the first half against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim O
JP: It’s very hard to make that call at this point. After last week, we saw that he is clearly not ready to lead this team yet, although he may be forced to, thanks to Mark Sanchez’s injury. This year will be a big one for him. If he can make some steps forward, I would be inclined to say yes.
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