Could One Game Determine the Fate of Sanchez v. Tebow?

Jan 1, 2012; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; New York Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez (6) runs the ball against the Miami Dolphins in the first quarter at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-US PRESSWIRE

Jan 14, 2012, Foxborough, MA, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow (15) throws a pass in an AFC Divisional playoff game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee/Image of Sport-US PRESSWIRE

Sanchez v. Tebow. It may be the most interesting battle around the league this preseason, and ultimately the 2012 season. Where do you fall? Arguments are certainly being made either way, all over.

That is not the point of this post this morning. Today, I want to take a look at the early part of the schedule, and ask the question. Can one game decide the fate of this matchup?

And I believe the answer is yes.

The game? Week four, when the Jets host the San Francisco 49ers.

Why do I think this?

Take a look at the schedule. In the first 3 weeks, leading up to this game, the Jets host Buffalo, play at the Steelers, and at the Dolphins.

With Mario Williams in the fold in Buffalo, among other acquisitions, the Bills will be much stronger. You could make the argument that the Bills could beat the Jets week 1. The pass rush of the Bills will be certainly rough for the Jets to handle. Although I have predicted a Jets win, a loss is not out of the realm of possibility.

Move on to week number 2, the Pittsburgh Steelers, in Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh is always tough, we know this. The Jets never have an easy time with them, especially in Pittsburgh. 0-2 is not impossible.

Finally, week 3 against the Dolphins. So, while 2-1 or 3-0 is a possibility, so is 1-2. The Jets enter week 4 playing the San Francisco 49ers, who some say is the best defense in the sport.

If the Jets enter this game at 1-2, it could spell trouble for Mark Sanchez. The Jets could start this game poorly, as the 49ers are especially tough against the run. As I mentioned in a previous post, with the possibility of a 1-3 start looming, they could come out in the second half with Tim Tebow as quarterback. If he ignites a spark, even if they don’t win, this could be the moment Rex Ryan makes a change at the quarterback spot to try and save the season.

You know my feeling if he does.

So, this game could be the line in the sand for the Sanchez/Tebow battle. Hopefully it won’t come to that.