NFL

No defense for sputtering Jets offense

A Jets “attack” that set offensive football back decades in the first two exhibition games didn’t look any better during last night’s open practice at MetLife Stadium.

Mark Sanchez threw a sideline pick-six interception to safety Yeremiah Bell in team drills, rookie wideout Stephen Hill and tight end Jeff Cumberland dropped multiple passes and the starting unit failed to get past midfield during the two-minute drill.

And the second-team offense led by Tim Tebow played so poorly that coach Rex Ryan singled it out for criticism.

“Clearly, the second-team defense dominated the practice,” Ryan said. “[Rush specialist Aaron] Maybin probably had about six sacks. It’s not to be unexpected, but I would still like to see that second-[string] offense pick it up a little bit.”

The Jets, who face Cam Newton and the Panthers at home Sunday, haven’t scored a touchdown in eight quarters of preseason action under new offensive coordinator Tony Sparano. They have mustered just three field goals in 24 total possessions, thanks in part to the glaring struggles of right tackle Wayne Hunter and injuries that have decimated their receiver corps.

* The NFL announced yesterday Jets defensive tackle Kenrick Ellis won’t face suspension for his recent 45-day jail sentence for misdemeanor assault and battery.

“The review has concluded, but there is nothing for us to announce,” league spokesman Greg Aiello told the NFL Network.

* Santonio Holmes, sidelined almost the entire summer by rib and back issues, went through some individual drills and non-contact team drills last night while Ryan reiterated he expects Holmes to play this weekend.

“It’s good to see Santonio out here running more individual routes,” Ryan said. “He’s doing well.”

Ryan, however, doesn’t expect fellow wideout Chaz Schilens to suit up against the Panthers. Schilens is out indefinitely with the dreaded high ankle sprain, which is also sidelining linebacker Ricky Sapp.

* Sparano had the Jets’ four quarterbacks throw at a garbage can 25 yards away in the corner of the end zone late in yesterday’s practice. Tebow was the only one of the QBs to loft a throw directly into the can, much to the delight of the crowd.

Linebacker Calvin Pace was excused from last night’s practice so he could have a wisdom tooth removed but is expected to return for today’s workout, Ryan said.