New York Jets vs. New York Giants in MetLife Bowl: 5 Green Points

Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports

First-unit Passing Offense

The reality has set in as the Jets prepare to start the season without quarterback Geno Smith at the helm.

Quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick gets another chance to add a good chapter to his mediocre NFL resume. He’s in a contract year, taking snaps as a starter likely for the last time in an extended period.

Fitzpatrick’s hopes of holding onto the starting job for the entire season begin with establishing himself within the Jets offense in a meaningful preseason game for most starters in the NFL. Bowles said the starters should play at least a half and possibly into the third quarter in Wednesday’s press conference after practice.

Fitzpatrick didn’t produce any points against the Atlanta Falcons, but he didn’t turn the ball over. Now, he must take the next step in moving the ball down the field, preferably ending a drive or two with a touchdown.

Too harsh, too soon? Probably not.

The Jets didn’t sign wide receiver Brandon Marshall to run routes and find satisfaction in picking up yards without finding the end zone.

General manager Mike Maccagnan paired Marshall and Eric Decker together to inject the offense with some explosive playmaking abilities. That standard remains valid regardless of who takes snaps at quarterback.

Bowles will have a laser eye on Fitzpatrick’s performance with a capable tandem of wide receivers at his disposal.

Next: Battle for No. 2 Running Back