The New York Jets spent most of this week answering questions about their quarterback competition. Geno Smith is coming off yet another inconsistent start while Michael Vick waits in the wings for his chance to play. However, for now Rex Ryan is endorsing Smith as the team's full-time starter which could all change against a tough Detroit Lions team ready to feast on the weaker opponent.
Smith has fallen under scrutiny once again after a loss to the Chicago Bears where his first pass was an interception returned for a touchdown. Things did not improve. He put up 316 passing yards, but had several magnified mistakes that plagued his performance. He has five turnovers on the year, well on his way to putting up another season of ball security problems. According to Ryan, improvement on first-down throws is key. Smith is 19 of 34 for 145 yards and four interceptions when throwing first.
The Jets have one of the better run games with 472 rushing yards on the season, but Smith is doing nothing to help them succeed after mis-managing distance on his first down. Chris Ivory could be getting the start at the position on Sunday as Chris Johnson struggles to improve off his several down years with the Tennessee Titans. Bilal Powell will also contribute to the effort.
The biggest question for the Jets with be cornerback Dee Milliner who will go up against Calvin Johnson. He ha been dealing with ankle injuries while the wide receiver has 329 yards and two touchdowns on the year. Golden Tate will be running alongside him with his 16 catches for 201 yards of the season. They have both been giving defenses headaches throughout the start of the year.
Johnson has yet to have that real breakout game and if could come against New York. The wide receiver had 165 yards in two games after putting together a quiet performance against the Giants. He has been limited in practice all week but them is hopeful he is good to go.
