Last season, quarterback Geno Smith was with the Las Vegas Raiders and led the NFL in interceptions with 17. After being traded to the New York Jets this offseason, he has yet to throw a turnover and has the Jets with a record of 2-3 after five games.
During his press conference today, Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel spoke on Geno Smith’s efficiency and how New England’s defense will be tested on Sunday.
“He’s done a fantastic job. If you want to try to create turnovers, you’re going to have to actually go out and force them. He hasn’t made many mistakes been really good with the football. Been decisive. Been able to create some ‘X’ plays,” said Vrabel.
“Geno’s no stranger to playing quarterback in this league, and what’s required of him and what the team needs of him, and I think that’s really important and he’s done a fantastic job at that.”
Sunday Outlook
Last week, New England’s defense, especially its secondary, was decimated by injuries as Christian Gonzalez (shoulder), Carlton Davis III (neck), Channing Canada (hamstring), and Karon Prunty (hamstring) were all inactive.
In their absence, the defense did an admirable job of limiting the Raiders’ passing game, holding Raiders quarterback Kirk Cousins to one touchdown and 243 yards.
New England’s pass defense got a boost at practice today as coach Vrabel said that Gonzalez “tried to do some stuff today”. If Gonzalez can return on Sunday, he will be a huge addition, matched up against Smith’s No. 1 receiver, Garrett Wilson.
Sunday’s divisional showdown isn’t just about whether New England’s secondary can jump a route—it’s about patience and disciplined disruption. If Mike Vrabel’s defense sits back and waits for Geno Smith to hand them an unforced error, they’ll be waiting all afternoon.
To end Smith’s clean streak and secure a crucial AFC East victory, the Patriots must manufacture chaos themselves, using an aggressive front seven to shrink Geno Smith’s time in the pocket before his mistake-free football can wear them down.
