Klubnik's Rookie Performance
Rookie Cade Klubnik leads two scoring drives for Jets in 24-16 loss; Geno Smith sidelined.
Rookie quarterback Cade Klubnik made the most of an unexpected start, leading two scoring drives in the New York Jets' 24-16 preseason loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Saturday. The fourth-round pick stepped in after Geno Smith was scratched with a sore foot, according to AP News.
Klubnik, who is competing for the Jets' No. 2 quarterback spot, went 5 of 7 for 56 yards before being replaced by Bailey Zappe. He was expected to play only a few snaps, but coach Aaron Glenn opted to rest Smith entirely rather than risk the injury getting worse, Orlando Sentinel reported.
Klubnik Steps Up With Surprise Preseason Opening Start
Klubnik had not been penciled in to start. But when Smith was held out, Glenn turned to the rookie to open the game under center. Klubnik delivered, guiding the Jets offense on two drives that ended in points. The performance gave the coaching staff an early look at what the young quarterback can do, AP News noted.
After his two drives, Zappe took over. The Jets fell short in the end, losing 24-16, but Klubnik's showing was a bright spot in an otherwise tough preseason opener for New York.
Geno Smith Sits Out With Sore Foot Concern
Smith was originally expected to take some snaps in the game. Instead, Glenn chose to protect his veteran quarterback and kept him on the sideline. The foot injury was described as sore but not considered serious, according to Beaumont Enterprise.
The decision put a spotlight on the Jets' quarterback depth. With Smith out, Klubnik and Zappe were the only signal-callers available. It also raised questions about Smith's timeline heading into the regular season.
Buccaneers' Third-String QB Leads Tampa Bay to Victory
Tampa Bay had its own quarterback shuffle. Starter Baker Mayfield sat out with the rest of the Buccaneers' starters. Backup Jake Browning was unavailable, so third-string quarterback Connor Bazelak got the call, Yahoo Sports reported.
Despite the unusual situation for both teams, the Buccaneers came out on top. Tampa Bay won 24-16, handing New York its first preseason loss and giving Bazelak a chance to show what he could do in a live game setting.
Klubnik's Battle for the Backup Quarterback Job Heats Up
Klubnik is fighting for the No. 2 spot on the Jets' depth chart. His 5-of-7 performance for 56 yards and two scoring drives was a solid start to that competition. Coaches now have real game tape to compare him with Zappe, who also played in the loss, ABC7 NY reported.
The preseason is the main stage for players like Klubnik to prove their worth. Every drive matters. Saturday's game gave the rookie a chance to show he belongs — and by most accounts, he made a case for himself.
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