FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- The Jets are getting pounded by critics who say the Tim Tebow Experiment is a bust, but Rex Ryan refused Wednesday to admit it's a failure.

"We’ve played seven games. We'll see at the end," Ryan said Wednesday. "I’m happy that Tim is with us, there’s no question about that. I’ll stand by my comments that he’s a tremendous football player. He’s a quarterback and an outstanding football player.

"What is that role? We will always do what we think is in the best interest of our football team. If that’s an expanded role for Tim, if it’s more of a secondary role, that’s what it’ll be."

Tebow is averaging only eight offensive snaps per game. He has rushed 22 times for only 76 yards and he has completed only two of three passes, including one completion on a fake punt.

Ryan is sticking to the company line, insisting that Tebow's presence helps the team because it forces opponents to prepare for him. What would be the definition of a decoy, wouldn't it?

"Would I like to see him average eight yards per carry with it? I absolutely would," Ryan said. "I know teams are preparing for it."

Ryan said Tebow's presence as the personal protector affects "almost every single punt." In fact, the Jets are 3-for-3 on fake punts, thanks to Tebow running and passing. But he hasn't had a huge impact on the punting game. The Jets are ranked 17th in net punting average.