New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith is set to start next week against the Baltimore Ravens, despite being benched on Sunday against the Buffalo Bills. Jets coach Rex Ryan, however, admitted backup Matt Simms may get more first-team reps at practice, the New York Daily News reports.
Smith turned in a poor performance in the Jets' 37-17 loss to Buffalo. The rookie completed 8 of 23 passes for 103 yards, no touchdowns and three interceptions; he also lost a fumble. Smith's outing was bad enough for Ryan to bench him in the fourth quarter for Simms.
While Simms wasn't able to walk away with the win, he did offer a glimpse of hope for Jets fans. Simms finished having completed 4 of 6 passes for 60 yards and one touchdown.
Despite the contrasts in performances, Ryan remained devoted to Smith starting again next week.
"Without question, Geno's going to start (against Baltimore)," Ryan said on Monday, according to The Daily News.
Ryan did say, however, there's "a possibility" that Simms would receive more reps at practice with the first team. If Smith struggles against Baltimore's defense, Simms could find himself entering the game to play catch-up again.
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Simms, a 2012 undrafted free agent and the son of ex-NFL quarterback Phil Simms, opened eyes with a stellar preseason. In limited action through three preseason games, Simms completed 74.5 percent of his passes for 478 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions.
The Jets have already indicated their plan to use this season to evaluate whether Smith has potential to be a franchise quarterback. But, with the Jets (5-5) still in contention for a playoff spot and Ryan's job on the line, Smith's audition may be cut short in favor of a signal caller who can give the team a better chance to win.
