Eagles vs. Jets: 5 Questions From The Other Side
By Todd Duvall
Aug 29, 2013; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Philadelphia Eagles running back Matthew Tucker (39) runs against the New York Jets during the second half of a preseason game at Metlife Stadium. The Jets won 27-20. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Tonight it’s Eagles vs. Jets. The Philadelphia Eagles will host the New York Jets for the final preseason game. We decided to reach out to The Jet Press for some insight on the boys across the river. Alan Schechter, Editor of The Jet Press was kind enough to answer five questions for us. We thank him for his time for putting this together for us.
1.) What is the general feel about the quarterback situation with Michael Vick and Geno Smith. Who do the fans prefer to start?
Well, first of all, there was never really a “competition” for the quarterback position with the Jets. Geno Smith took at least 75% of the first team snaps at training camp, and started every game of the preseason. Michael Vick did not see much time with the first string, and even was quoted as saying that he knew he was not going to be the starter out of the gate week one.
That being said, I think the fan base feels good about Geno Smith. So far, he has been performing like a different player. His decisions are good, and his throws are accurate. It doesn’t hurt to have a guy like Eric Decker on the outside either.
2.) Were the fans glad to see Mark Sanchez go? Why or why not?
The majority of the fan base (myself excluded) was thrilled to pieces that Mark Sanchez is gone. Everyone was sick of watching him throw multiple interceptions each week, and hanging his head as he would leave the field. He did totally lose confidence in himself, and it was time to go.
In my opinion, he is at the very least, a quality veteran backup, which seems to be how he is performing in Philadelphia. I have always thought he was a good quarterback, like he showed in 2009-2010. You don’t win 4 road playoff games in two years if you don’t have something. He should perform well down there in Philly.
3.) For a couple of years now it seem Head Coach Rex Ryan has been on the hot seat. If the Jets don’t make the playoffs this year will Ryan be in danger of losing his job?
Coach Ryan will be in jeopardy if the Jets miss the playoffs for the fourth straight year. The short extension given by John Idzik does not in anyway guarantee Rex for the long term. Frankly, I think whether or not he SHOULD lose his job if they don’t make the playoffs depends on the reason. For example, it’s not his fault if the cornerbacks on the roster aren’t cutting it, considering the free agents that John Idzik left on the table.
4.) How will the Jets’ defense be impacted by Dimitri Patterson’s indefinite suspension.
In and of itself, believe it or not, the Patterson suspension isn’t huge. He hasn’t played much due to the persistent injuries he has had. But, combining that situation with Dee Milliner’s high ankle sprain, and Dexter McDougle being lost for the season it’s a problem. The Jets have a shortage of bodies at the cornerback position, they need someone to step up.
5.) What is the biggest concern for the Jets going into the regular season?
By far, it’s the backline of the defense. The Jets have one of the top defensive front sevens in the sport. The secondary, however, is another story. They were susceptible to the big play in 2013, and it has continued in the 2014 preseason.