New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan has taken his lumps since getting the job as Gang Green's leader, but few question his defensive acumen. That is why Ryan's high praise for Detroit Lions tackle Ndamukong Suh, whom his offensive line will attempt to block on Sunday, is not to be taken lightly.
"Suh is probably the version now of Warren Sapp," Ryan said. "He's probably as close to Warren Sapp as I've seen." Sapp played for 13 seasons and recorded 96.5 sacks, 571 tackles, forced 19 fumbles and recovered 12.
Sapp has been critical of Suh through the first four seasons of his career, despite Suh totaling 28.5 sacks during that span. Ryan, though, sees plenty of similarities that Sapp may have missed.
"[Sapp's] a Hall of Famer. Again, it doesn't get much higher than that," Ryan said. "This kid [Suh] is fun to watch. He's got an excellent motor, and he's got skills. He has unusual balance. He's not off his feet, he's able to play with power, he's able to play with finesse, and it's just a rare combination. He's a guy that's obviously a difference-maker."
Through three games in 2014, Suh has one sack and eight tackles for the 2-1 Lions. Detroit is currently ranked second in the NFL against the run and sixth against the pass despite a middling secondary on paper.
As for Sapp, Suh took the high road and declined to lob any harsh words the Hall of Famer's way. "Dominant player," Suh said. "Obviously did a great job. Kind of revolutionized the 3-technique, as you kind of say. But just a solid player."
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