Posted by: Luis Cruz - Posted on: 01-18-2010

So I’ve never really been much of a Jets fan. However I found myself cheering for them and fellow Mexican American Mark Sanchez this past Sunday. Although not the only Latino in the NFL as individuals such as Tony Romo who has a single parent of Latino descent also plays the quarterback position. Mark Sanchez is a full blooded third generation Mexican American and a descendant of hardworking Mexicans who migrated to California. Most Mexican Americans can appreciate his story and can find hope in that with each generation our children can reach heights unattainable by themselves.

Since H.S Mark excelled as a football quarterback. He was considered one of the nations top prospects and signed with USC. He led the Trojans to the 12-1 season his red shirt senior year and won a Rose Bowl offensive MVP. He developed a large Mexican American following in California. Although leaving early from school, Sanchez red shirted his freshmen year and therefore accumulated enough credits to earn his Bachelors Degree.

Since joining the N.Y Jets his fame has steadily grown and the playoffs are sure to bring his story to the rest of the Nation.


So back to some Mark Sanches football talk. It was a season of ups and downs as the N.Y Jets started hot but began to cool down midseason. There drop in performance had their coach second guessing a playoff appearance. With help from the Colts and Bengals who phoned in their last two games the Jets slipped into the playoffs.

With a near flawless win over the Bengals (24-14) Sanchez was 12 0f 15 for 182 years and had a quarterback rating of 139. Playing against the Chargers who were coming off an 11 game win streak most experts had the Jets going down in this one. However Mark and the Jets played a smart game and with only one interception they managed to squeak by the favored Chargers.

So who awaits the Jets? The mighty Colts and their super quarterback Peyton Manning. Again the Colts will be heavily favored but the Jets have promised to give it their all.
I know the NFL is happy, as Latinos become more NFL friendly they are sure to pay special attention to the Jets game whether they are New York fans or not, we tend to support our own.

So good luck Mark, win one for Latinos everywhere.

Peter Garza
LW Sports Contributor