Game Managers. Some see them as boring and predictable. Others view them as careful and dependable, a leader who always gives their team a chance to win.
In a win-now situation, the New York Jets have the pieces in place for a game manager to enjoy success. Not only do they have a strong defense–featuring a defensive line that can bulldoze opponents–but they’re also projected to have both a solid running game and one of the NFL’s best wide receiver tandems with Brandon Marshall and Eric Decker. The biggest question mark remains at quarterback, and unless Ryan Fitzpatrick returns, Geno Smith is the presumptive starter.
Setting Up Geno Smith for Success
Smith’s tenure with the Jets has been anything but smooth. He struggled in his first two seasons, but to be fair, he didn’t have a lot of talent around him. While Decker joined the team in 2014, his other receivers consisted of players such as Stephen Hill, Jeremy Kerley, Saalim Hakim and high-wire speedster Percy Harvin, who only had one measly touchdown. It wasn’t exactly an all-star cast.
With that said, Smith did have a great defense supporting him when he was a starter. During his 2013 rookie campaign, the defense was ranked No. 11 in total defense and No. 6 in 2014. Smith, though, needs to do a better job of putting his defense in a position to win games. In 2014, the Jets were -11 in turnover differential, resulting in a 22nd-place ranking in total defense. Smith must minimize mistakes and keep the defense off the field long enough for them to regain their energy to make plays.
The Game Manager
When people think of game managers, the first player that probably comes to mind is Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith. He lacks the flashiness and eye-popping stats for an audience, but after a shaky start to begin his career, he has experienced a renaissance by leading his team to the playoffs in two of the past three seasons.
Comparing Alex Smith to Geno Smith may seem like comparing apples to oranges, but despite having different skill sets, history shows they may have some similarities.
When Alex Smith entered the league in 2005, he was rocky at best. During his rookie campaign, he had one touchdown and 11 interceptions. While he improving his touchdown total to 16 the following year, he still threw 16 picks. On the other hand, Geno Smith recorded 12 touchdowns to 21 interceptions during his rookie season. He was slightly better in year two, posting 13 touchdowns and 13 interceptions.
Alex Smith didn’t enjoy success until former head coach Jim Harbaugh stepped in and relied heavily on his defense and running game. Alex Smith only recorded five interceptions his first two seasons under Harbaugh, leading the San Francisco 49ers to an NFC championship game. Now with the Chiefs, Alex Smith continues to depend on his defense and running game. He has also expanded his own repertoire in order to put his team in positions to win.
Geno Smith’s First Two Years
Alike Alex Smith, Geno Smith had high interception totals and struggled in his first two seasons. However, he has all the physical tools to be a successful quarterback. If he’s put in the right situation similar to the Chiefs signal-caller, Geno Smith has the chance to thrive in New York.
With Marshall and Decker taking the charge and running back Matt Forte providing an added dimension as a reliable pass-catcher, Geno Smith has dependable players at his disposal. If tight end Jace Amaro can play at the level he’s expected, the match-up problems he creates when lined up against linebackers and safeties can also help Geno in passing situations.
Avoiding Turnovers
To be successful, Geno Smith needs to avoid making risky plays and take what the opposing defenses give him. If a big play presents itself, he must take advantage. Smith must use the aerial game efficiently while using the run to keep the defense honest. Geno Smith has a better arm than Alex Smith. This will enable him to stretch the field with downhill passes.
Despite the criticism game managers receive from audiences and league-wide pundits, Geno Smith needs to realize that he has a strong contributing cast around him. Unlike his first two years, he now has the offensive weapons to alleviate pressure off of him. He also benefits from a tenacious defense that is expected to perform at a high level.
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