Mark Sanchez Knew it “From the Jump”

Sept. 9, 2012; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets wide receiver Jeremy Kerley (11) celebrates with quarterback Mark Sanchez (6) after scoring a touchdown during the first quarter against the Buffalo Bills at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Debby Wong-US PRESSWIRE

With zero touchdowns for his group during the preseason, there were a lot of worries going into the game yesterday against the Bills. Specifically, many felt that the quarterback controversy would come to a head after the game if the offense was lackluster.

Guess what? It wasn’t. The Jets put up 48 points yesterday, silencing the critics, at least for the time being. Despite the doubters, you know who knew that they would play well? Mark Sanchez:

I knew we were just capable of scoring points. I knew we had a great plan coming into the game. I had a good feeling about it all week, and I knew our shortcomings in the preseason were shortcomings in the red zone. There were penalties. (I) hit Stephen (Hill) on almost the exact same route I threw to PT (Patrick Turner) for a pick six against the Giants. You throw it right, you throw it accurately and you score. I knew we were really close in the preseason. Did I know it was 48 points? No, I didn’t necessarily know that, but that’s just a great day of execution. We still left some plays out there so it wasn’t perfect. (We’ve) still got a lot of work to do but I’m really proud of our effort and the way we moved the ball today.

Sept 9, 2012; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets wide receiver Stephen Hill (84) celebrates his second touchdown catch of the game during the second half of their game against the Buffalo Bills at MetLIfe Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-US PRESSWIRE

When asked about whether or not he learned about his team, Mark said he already knew that they could play:

I know we’re a special group. I’ve known that from the jump, but I think we’re starting to realize it. It’s important to keep this whole thing in perspective. It’s a great way to start, it’s exactly what you want in your home opener, but we’ll celebrate this one for a couple more hours, then, we’ve got to get ready for Pittsburgh, because that’s going to (be) another tough challenge (and) on the road, (it is) never an easy place to play. So, we’ve got a lot to go here.

Mark is showing the confidence that a leader should. He must sound confident in his teammates, as to be ready to lead them where they need to go. He also doesn’t let them get too confident either. He is already talking about Pittsburgh for next week. Look ahead, keep the team focused. That is your mature leader, New York Jets fans.