CORTLAND, N.Y. -- Observations from the press box:
Mark Sanchez
#6 QB
New York Jets
2012 STATS
- Att453
- Comp246
- Yds2883
- TD13
- Int18
- Rat66.9
1. Not lacking in confidence: Mark Sanchez, commenting for the first time since Rex Ryan revealed his quarterbacks plans for Friday night, said he "earned the right" to start the preseason opener. I wouldn't get too comfortable if I were him because this quarterback competition is far from settled. If Geno Smith comes off the bench and plays well in Detroit, he will start the second game with a chance to nail down the starting job.
2. Chaz not a Sanchez fan: Chaz Schilens' most memorable moment as a Jet came last training camp, when he took umbrage to CB Antonio Cromartie telling ESPN he'd be the second-best receiver on the team if afforded the opportunity to play the position. One year later, the veteran receiver still is making news with his mouth, this time with the Lions. He told the Detroit Free Press he has "nothing good to say" about Sanchez, so "I'm not going to say nothing." Schilens is doing a lot of talking for someone who could be out of a job in a couple of weeks.
3. Climbing the Hill top: It's still early, but WR Stephen Hill is the most improved player on the team. The former second-round pick has impressed with his improved mechanics and route running, so much so that receivers coach Sanjay Lal highlighted a particular play in Wednesday's receivers meeting. Hill could be the No. 1 receiver, because it doesn't appear that Santonio Holmes will be ready for Week 1.
