National Football League

Jets' Clemens gets first start in 2 years

Published Dec. 17, 2009 7:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

Quarterback Kellen Clemens is making his first start for the New York Jets in two years, filling in for injured rookie Mark Sanchez against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Sanchez sprained his right knee during a victory over Buffalo last week.

The Bucs are playing without linebacker Geno Hayes, who has a sore hamstring and was replaced by Matt McCoy. Receiver Michael Clayton is inactive for the second straight week, replaced by Maurice Stovall.

Kevin O'Connell is New York's third quarterback. Cornerback Dwight Lowery, linebackers Kenwin Cummings and Marques Murrell, offensive linemen Ryan McKee and Robert Turner and defensive end Ropati Pitoitua are the other inactives.

Receiver Sammie Stroughter, offensive linemen Shawn Murphy and James Lee, cornerback Derrick Roberson and defensive lineman Michael Bennett did not dress for Tampa Bay.