Todd Bowles taking smart risk with Geno Smith
In a move the New York Jets had to take, head coach Todd Bowles took a smart risk by finally turning to quarterback Geno Smith.
It was a change that needed to happen. One of which could indeed turn the season around for the New York Jets. Head coach Todd Bowles took a smart risk by benching quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick in favor for Geno Smith.
While it was a move that happened a few weeks too late, Bowles could have very well made a change that could finally bring some positive news to a team struggling to do anything right. Of course, Smith won’t fix all their glaring problems, but it should hopefully be better than everything we’ve seen so far from Fitzpatrick.
Bowles is taking a big risk here as apparently, it was his decision to make the quarterback switch without anyone else alongside or even above him telling him what to do. As per the Media Relations Department of the Jets, here is what Bowles said when asked:
On if his decision was influenced by someone or if it was strictly his call…
This was strictly my call.
On whether he saw anything on film from Fitzpatrick that changed his decision…
No, it’s all our fault. It’s still not Fitz’s fault. Fitz is not falling on the sword for anything. I take responsibility, the coaches take responsibility, the offensive line and the receivers take responsibility. But I felt it was time for a change. We got up there in the turnover category. We hadn’t put any points up and we’re trying to get a spark somewhere so I made the change.
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There are a lot of problems across this team but at the end of the day, it’s all about scoring points.
The Jets’ offense has been abysmal as of late that a change like this can only bode well to get some kind of rhythm going.
Smith has a better arm, is a dual-threat, and can put the Jets in a better position to score some touchdowns. The truth of the matter is, he has the skill-set to really push the envelope, especially after spending over a year away from the spotlight.
Hopefully, Smith will be able to put that time away to good use and be what this team needs to at least have a shot at winning some football games. It’s his time to shine and prove his worth, especially in a year that could see him earn another opportunity with the Jets next season or even elsewhere.
Overall, Bowles made the right choice here as there was no need to go after a free agent quarterback, rush Bryce Petty back too soon from his shoulder injury, or throw Christian Hackenberg to the wolves so quickly. Smith gives them a fresh look and hopefully, will give fans something to cheer on come game day.