Match-up 101: Determining the Raiders and Jets Winner

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The 2014 NFL season is full of question-marks and “educated” guesses and Geno Smith is no exception.  After being labelled as the best quarterback in the 2013 draft class, Smith has yet to prove, to everyone, the accuracy of that assessment.  Lacking passing options, Smith has been forced to face a curve that may see him struggle for another year.  The Jets are said to have an improved backfield, but the new CJ2K has yet to return to his “2k” form.

Eric Decker has been significantly overlooked and should provide a legitimate spark to the Jet’s offense this year.  Alongside the aforementioned rookie tight end, the Jet’s passing attack is yet to be showcased.  After a lackluster preseason, NFL fans are waiting to see what they can expect from the Jet’s passing attack this year.  The success of their season will come down to the ability of their 2nd year quarterback.  The Raiders and Jets pass defense has been questionable as of late.

Being protected by one of the best offensive tackles in the game, D’Brickashaw Ferguson, Smith should have ampul time to find an open receiver.  If his receivers are unable to separate themselves, Geno has the uncanny ability to escape the pocket as well.  While Jet’s fans shouldn’t lean on Smith’s running ability, (Ie: Robert Griffin) as an injury would derail their season; the Raiders shouldn’t overlook this aspect of his game.

If Geno plays well and shows the ability to lead the franchise, the Raiders could stumble in New Work.  If the Oakland defense brings their “A” game and contains the young signal-caller, they should be able to make enough plays to leave the east coast victorious for the first time in 5 seasons.

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