Florham Park, NJ

New York Jets coach Rex Ryan will stick with Mark Sanchez as starting quarterback, albeit on a short term basis.

Ryan claimed the decision was based on what gives them the best chance to beat the Jacksonville Jaguars.

The coach admitted there was a "difference of opinion" within the organization, but said owner Woody Johnson was on board.

There was speculation that Johnson preferred backup Greg McElroy, the new fan favorite after rallying the Jets to a 7-6 win Sunday over the Arizona Cardinals in his NFL debut. Sanchez was benched Sunday for the first time in his career.

"He has to play better, he has to protect the ball better," said Ryan of Sanchez, adding that he would "absolutely" pull him if the turnovers continue.

Sanchez threw three interceptions against the Cards, increasing his turnover total to 18 -- 44 over the last two seasons, the second-highest total in the league.

Only Philip Rivers has committed more turnovers since the start of the 2011 season. And the Jets QB leads the NFL in home turnovers with 24 over that same span.

Despite his struggles, Sanchez still has support within the organization, including the offensive coaching staff. Part of that is because there's little faith in Tebow, and McElroy, a former seventh-round pick, is an unknown.

 

Jets coach Rex Ryan sticks with Sanchez despite fan buzz for McElroy

 

 

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