The New York Jets close the preseason at 7 p.m. ET Thursday at MetLife Stadium, where they face the Philadelphia Eagles. Here's a couple things to watch for during the game:

Why watch: If you're a hardcore fan anxious to see backups battling for roster spots, this is your kind of game. Coach Todd Bowles said 40 or so roster slots already are locked up, so you have to figure eight to 10 jobs remain up in the air, if that many. The most compelling story is the No. 2 quarterback position. Matt Flynn and Josh Johnson, both signed in the aftermath of Geno Smith's injury, will get the bulk of the snaps. On Tuesday, Bowles was leaning toward starting Flynn, the favorite for the job. Flynn, limited to two full practices in camp because of a hamstring injury, would have to get hurt again or play miserably to blow his chance. Remember, it's only a temp position until Smith is healthy, but it's an important job. They need veteran insurance behind Ryan Fitzpatrick because rookie Bryce Petty isn't ready yet. The teams play again in Week 3, so the game plans will be more watered down than usual.

Did you know? This will have a 2012 feel to it because Mark Sanchez and Tim Tebow will be on the same sideline. The last time that happened at MetLife Stadium was Dec. 23, 2012, when they served as backups to Greg McElroy in a loss to the San Diego Chargers -- the Jets' final home game in a 6-10 season. That was the day it was revealed that Tebow, whose frustration with his role had been building through the season, asked out of the Wildcat package. Who can forget the utter madness (dysfunction?) caused by Tebow's presence? On his return trip, Tebow will be trying to win a job, not give one away. He's battling Matt Barkley for the No. 3 quarterback job. Barkley will start, but Tebow will get a long look to convince coach Chip Kelly he belongs. Sanchez, the former Jets' golden boy, is expected to sit out.