The New York Jets have exceeded everyone's expectations so far this season. After Mark Sanchez was ruled out for the season with a shoulder injury and Geno Smith was named the starter, no one really predicted much out of the Jets. However, the team is sitting at 4-4 with a run to playoffs becoming more likely by the week. Smith says if the team is getting to the postseason, it will be because of him.
Smith believes the Jets season rests in the improvement of the quarterback position. Basically he is thinking about carrying the team on his back and if they lose it is because of something he did. The rookie is already learning the ways of an NFL quarterback, saying all of the right things to the media.
"I think it has to be dramatic," Smith said, via ESPNNewYork.com. "I've shown the ability to do certain things, but the key is consistency, being consistent every single down. I have to get better to help this team win. It's always good to see progress and see improvement, but in no way, shape or form am I happy with the way I've played over the first eight games. I could've done a lot better. I do understand I have a lot to learn, but I know what I'm capable of."
Smith has had his fair share of rookie mistakes. The quarterback has 13 interceptions after Week 8, but continues to lead game-winning drives to keep the Jets alive. According to ESPN Stats and Information, Smith has led a game-winning drive in the fourth quarter or in overtime four times so far in seven games. The issue becomes consistency, something Smith has yet to show.
"I think where I get in the most trouble is later on in games, just from my own observations," Smith said. "I have to be more consistent."
Teammates are certainly noticing how much the rookie has taken on the role of the leader for the team. A self-proclaimed perfectionist, Smith says his focus has been film study and learning new passing routes to make the team better.
"I see him take a lot of notes in his pads," Santonio Holmes said. "He talks to me after meetings, and we talk more about his growth as a great teammate, and I think that's definitely improving."
