If chicken soup soothes the soul, can Mexican food help cut down on interceptions?
Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez has struggled recently, throwing 11 picks in his last seven games after not throwing any in his first five games this season. In an attempt to remedy the turnover problem, Rex Ryan met with Sanchez over some tacos to discuss football.
“This isn’t a huge thing. It’s a lunch date so I can eat Mexican food with him,” Ryan joked to Newsday.
But the lunch sessions could prove to be helpful for the sophomore.
Last season, Ryan instituted a color-coded system when Sanchez was struggling, and the quarterback responded by cutting down on turnovers.
This season, Ryan wants to pass on his knowledge of the Jets upcoming opponents — the Dolphins and Steelers. Ryan previously coached with Dolphins defensive coordinator Mike Nolan and faced Steelers defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau often during Ryan’s days with the Ravens, so the Jets coach has some insight to share.
“It was more of a big-picture conversation regarding schemes and what they like to do,” Sanchez said after the lunch meeting. “It’s always helpful talking football with Rex because you spend so much time in offensive meetings and discussing our approach that it’s good to get a defensive perspective. It really enhances your overall football knowledge. I think it was awesome that he took the time to do it.”
The Jets take on the Dolphins Sunday at the Meadowlands, where Ryan and Sanchez hope to get back on track after last week’s blowout loss to the Patriots.
