Aug 9, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith (7) looks to the sidelines in the second quarter of a preseason game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

Early this evening, the New York Jets ruled potential starting quarterback Geno Smith out for tonight’s game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Ruling Smith out was expected, though, has been met with a heavy handful of scrutiny.

The Jets of course allowed Smith to practice this week on a bum ankle, resulting in the ankle swelling and Smith being unable to play in the Jets’ second preseason game. Because of that, Smith has now reportedly fallen behind Mark Sanchez on the depth chart and barring an injury to the interception happy Sanchez, it’s likely Smith will open the season as the backup quarterback.

It’s a move that will undoubtedly frustrate most Jet fans as there were hopes that Sanchez would finally be removed from his perch and Smith would be able to do what Sanchez hasn’t been able to do – win.

For now, that will have to wait.

There’s no word on what Smith’s availability will be for the Jets next game. It’s likely the team will take a day to day approach with Smith before making any further announcements.