EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- The New York Jets have a full-blown quarterback controversy and -- surprise -- it doesn't involve Tim Tebow.

Embattled starter Mark Sanchez was benched for the first time in his career during the third quarter of Sunday's 7-6 win over the Arizona Cardinals.

Sanchez, who threw three interceptions, was replaced by second-year quarterback Greg McElroy, who made his NFL debut and led the Jets on a 69-yard touchdown drive in his first series.

After the game, Jets coach Rex Ryan declined to name a starter for next week's game against the Jacksonville Jaguars -- the first time in three-plus seasons he failed to publicly back Sanchez as his starter. If Ryan decides to go with McElroy, it could signal the end of the Sanchez era.

Tebow, whom many felt would eventually unseat Sanchez, wasn't in the equation. He was inactive for the game because of fractured ribs while McElroy was active for the first time in his career.

"It's something I sensed and something I felt," Ryan said, explaining the decision to pull Sanchez after 10 consecutive scoreless possessions. "When you're around the game long enough, you get that feel that, 'You know what? I've seen enough and it's time to make that change.' "

Sanchez was clearly disappointed with the decision, but he didn't question Ryan's decision.

"I didn't expect it, but it doesn't matter," Sanchez said. "It's the coach's call. He wants to win the game, so he's going to do his best to do that."

Sanchez has been inconsistent throughout the season, throwing 12 touchdown passes and 13 interceptions. In fact, he has 44 turnovers over the last two years, including the now-infamous "Butt Fumble" from last week's embarrassing loss to the New England Patriots.

Despite his struggles and Tebow's presence, Sanchez received unflagging support from Ryan -- until Sunday.

Sanchez's first pass was intercepted by former Jets safety Kerry Rhodes, who intercepted another in the first quarter. Sanchez was booed throughout the game. At times, the crowd chanted for McElroy, a seventh-round draft selection last season.