Jets' Ryan guessing boo-birds have flown at MetLife

As Mark Sanchez has learned, playing quarterback in New York has a dark side.

Despite leading the Jets to consecutive AFC Championship Game appearances, Sanchez finds himself the center of much debate in his third season, with fans asking if their quarterback can be trusted.

Boos rained down on Sanchez before New York's 28-24 victory over the Bills in Week 12, but his game-winning drive in that affair -- and last Sunday's win over the Redskins -- has eased the finger off the panic button, if only for now.

Coach Rex Ryan believes Sanchez will be embraced at MetLife Stadium on Sunday in a must-win game against the Chiefs.

"I think it's only one time he's gotten booed at home," Ryan said. "I think we're going to introduce the offense again this week. I'll bet you he doesn't get booed this time. He's had two fourth-quarter wins. So we'll float it out there again. I'm going to call our guys and tell them we're going to introduce our offense, but I bet he doesn't get booed this time."

Ryan, of course, has more on his plate than hassling P.A. announcers. His 7-5 team is fighting for its playoff life, in a four-way tie for the final AFC wild-card spot.

"We know we have to have this game," Ryan said. "So with that understanding, I think that's dialed up the intensity and the focus."

Both on the Jets, and on their under-the-microscope quarterback.