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New York Jets vs. Buffalo Bills: 5 Matchups To Watch

By Kenneth Teape

Nov 12, 2015; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) gives the play to the offense in the second half at MetLife Stadium. The Bills defeated the Jets 22-17 Mandatory Credit: William Hauser-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 12, 2015; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) gives the play to the offense in the second half at MetLife Stadium. The Bills defeated the Jets 22-17 Mandatory Credit: William Hauser-USA TODAY Sports /
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New York Jets vs. Buffalo Bills: 5 Matchups To Watch
Jan 3, 2016; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills defensive tackle Marcell Dareus (99) tries to knock down a pass by New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) during the second half at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Bills beat the Jets 22 to 17. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports /

Ryan Fitzpatrick vs. Bills’ Secondary

This could be the deciding factor in the game, as quarterback play is as important as anything in the NFL. The Jets have learned this the hard way, as Fitzpatrick has put up some gaudy stats but comes up short when they need him most.

Last season against the Bills was one of those instances. Fitzpatrick crumbled in the final game of the season, completing only 18-of-37 for 181 yards, two touchdowns, and three interceptions. He completed only three passes to anyone not named Brandon Marshall or Eric Decker, as he was inaccurate all game.

Fitzpatrick struggled mightily against the Bills last season, completing only 43.6 percent of his passes. He threw five interceptions, as he never got things going against the Bills. If the Jets are to make the postseason this year, they will need Fitzpatrick to play better against borderline playoff teams, such as the Bills.

It will not be an easy task, though. If there is anything that a Rex Ryan led team does well it is play defense. While the Bills fell short of expectations last season, their defense can still get the job done. It was not their fault that the Bills are 0-1 to start the season, as they made life difficult on Joe Flacco and the Ravens offense.

Next: New York Jets Takeaways From Week 1 Loss

Fitzpatrick will have to find a way to produce Thursday against the Bills if the Jets want to win the game. He should take some notes from Taylor on ball security, as the had zero turnovers in two games and got two victories.

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