Geno Smith is about to get a trial by fire as the rookie steps in to be the starting quarterback of the New York Jets. The coaching has full confidence in the second-round draft pick and his ability to step up in place of the injured veteran Mark Sanchez. Smith may have been in a competition with the quarterback, but an injury led to the winner being named by default. Regardless of how he got the starting spot, Smith is ready to own the offense.
Head coach Rex Ryan is reminding the quarterback that this is his offense now. He is in the driver's seat officially after being named the starting quarterback on Wednesday. With Sanchez out for at least two weeks, Smith moved up the depth chart after limited play in the preseason. The rookie went 22 of 37 in passing for 246 yards, one touchdown and one interception in his two games during the preseason.
Despite missing time for a sprained ankle, Ryan is confident that Smith has a strong grasp on the offense and system. Coordinator Marty Mornhinweg told reporters that his pass-heavy scheme compliments Smith and his teammates will help him out in tough spots. While some might say the Jets are rushing the rookie into the spotlight, Smith feels good about starting as the top quarterback off the bat.
"I'm ready. I don't think I've been rushed," Smith said, via ESPN.com. "I don't think they would put me out there if they didn't think I was ready. Like I said, I've been preparing my butt off. It's something that's going to continue to improve. My preparation will never change. I'm going to go out there with the intent to have a great game."
Smith could have his hands full in the first game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. His opponent has some added motivation in the season opener as cornerback Darrelle Revis will be in search of a little revenge against his former team. Smith is not concerned about the defensive star and is not preparing any differently for Revis. He does not feel it is necessary to watch any added game tape.
"I mean, I don't think it's necessary," Smith said. "Maybe I will, maybe I won't. You pretty much get the idea of what kind of player he is based on his reputation."
Not the best response, Smith. The rookie added that he and Sanchez have had multiple conversations about Revis and he thinks that is good enough. The cornerback responded to the remarks with a laugh.
"I don't understand why [laughing] he didn't study me?" Revis said. "Because I will be on the opposite side. But I don't know what their gameplan or their preparation is. And personally I don't know what Geno's preparation is but I would hope if you're playing against another opponent you should [laughing once more] study everybody on the opposing team. I'm studying him. Just to let him know, I'm studying him."