Is Mark Sanchez a Sanchise or a Sandtrap?

by Eric Smith

Mark Sanchez is the quarterback that is holding the Jets back. Over the last few years, they have been competitive, but Mark Sanchez has only averaged a little more than 1 TD a game over the last 3 years. He has also averaged an interception per game. The fact that he hasn’t even cracked 3,500 yards for a season is a joke. 14 QB’s had more yards than him. He also ranked 28^th in completion percentage with 56.7 percent. Therefore, with a great defense run by Rex Ryan and solid running game led by a great offensive line led by Nick Mangold. They have the pieces in place to win a championship, but it is clearly Mark Sanchez.

As a result of Sanchez’s performance, the Jets need to start looking for a replacement. There are several free agents who could replace him. Honestly, Alex Smith might be the quarterback the Jets need. Alex Smith only had 4 interceptions the entire year and he had a completion percentage over 60. He came very close to winning the NFC championship game. The 49ers probably could have one that game if Kenny Williams, their punt return man, didn’t have that ball hit his knee.

Kyle Orton might be another interesting option. Unlike Sanchez, he has gotten over the 3,500 yard mark, and he prospered under Josh McDaniels. I think if people appreciated Orton, he could have succeeded. You have to feel sorry for him. I mean the fans wanted to see Tim Tebow while he was playing. He started while the league leader in jersey sales was on the bench. Also, Vince Young had a similar situation. His coach Jeff Fischer didn’t want him, and he didn’t get the respect he deserved. All he did was win. Young’s record as a starter before he signed with the Eagles was 30-17.

Finally, maybe the most intriguing option is Matt Flynn. Against the Lions in the last game, he had 480 years. Now granted he did play in the terrific Packers offense, but could Mark Sanchez honestly do that if he started for the Packers? I mean Sanchez only got over 300 yards in a game 3 times this season.

Finally, everyone will mention Peyton Manning. Obviously if he can come back healthy this would certainly bring the Jets over the hump regardless of the cost. Yet, lets just be realistic. He has been battling this neck injury for over a year and he has surgery on his neck 3 or 4 times. It would be nice if Peyton Manning could come back healthy, but fans don’t honestly think he is coming back, they just hope he will come back because everyone loves to the watch one of if not the greatest QB of his era or of all time.