The Facts: Pennington has won the Jets' starting quarterback job, according to a team official with knowledge of the team's plans. The official, who requested anonymity because coach Eric Mangini isn't ready to make a formal announcement, said the competition at quarterback is over. Pennington, the official said, has surprised the organization with his arm strength and accuracy, easily outdistancing himself from Patrick Ramsey.

Diehards Line:"We're surprised at the progress he's made," the official told Star-Ledger staffer Dave Hutchinson. "No one expected him to be this far along this early. ..." Pennington, who has gone through eight practices, continues to show touch, distance and increased velocity on his throws and is skipping fewer and fewer drills. Ramsey and rookie Kellen Clemens, meanwhile, have lacked consistency. ... It's not clear when official confirmation will come here, but we'll continue to follow the story and bring you more as necessary.