NY Jets: No thumb, no problem for Ryan Fitzpatrick

The NY Jets were able to persevere and get a much needed win on Sunday over the Jacksonville Jaguars to bring their record to 5-3 on the season.

Ryan Fitzpatrick didn’t look bothered by some torn thumb ligaments in his non-throwing hand on Sunday, which is good news for fans of the Jets. With the possibility of starting rookie quarterback Bryce Petty in the wake of all the injuries the Jets suffered last week, things looked grim.

Fortunately Fitzpatrick showed up to practice on Wednesday and practiced in full with no issues: handing the ball off, throwing the ball, or gripping the ball. Fitzpatrick finished Sunday’s performance with another solid day at the office: 272 yards through the air and another 2 touchdowns and zero interceptions.

What has been consistent throughout Fitzpatrick’s career is his propensity for turnovers, but with the Jets albeit for a few outings he has taken good care of the pigskin. The Jets really needed Fitzpatrick more than ever today, especially with the Jets’ running game continuing to stagnate.

Ball game. #JetUp pic.twitter.com/LyOAVdK2NS

— New York Jets (@nyjets) November 8, 2015

The Jets mustered a measly 29 yards on the ground, a far cry from their league leading average just a few short weeks ago when they were banging out over 140 yards a game. I asked ESPN New York Jets reporter Rich Cimini this week in the lead up to the game what is wrong with Chris Ivory?

Nothing is wrong. Bad game by O-line last week, as Ivory noted. https://t.co/KaztoHYqgp — Rich Cimini (@RichCimini) November 7, 2015

Now that number is 84 yards in 3 games, are we ready to admit something is wrong yet? I love Ivory and he came up with 2 big touchdowns today, but what is going on? Sure Nick Mangold being in and out of the lineup isn’t helping and I understand that Willie Colon ended up sitting out this game as well, but the Jets need to get Ivory going.

Next: Season is doomed if dependent on Geno Smith

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, the Jets can win through the air (as they did today), but for the long term sustained success of this offense, I don’t see them winning that way on a consistent basis. I think they need the running game to keep this offense balanced.

The Jets have to quickly shift focus and get ready for their Thursday night match-up with the Buffalo Bills (4-4). Fortunately, the Jets will be playing at home which should help in their preparation, but this game has huge future playoff implications and Gang Green should realize it’s crucial importance.