Jets vs. Bengals: Five Who Need to Step Up

Here are five Jets who could use a big night.

Geno Smith

It is difficult for a quarterback to get into any kind of a rhythm playing as sparingly as Geno did last week. This week Rex Ryan indicated the starters are getting a half. This will be a better indicator of where Geno is. I want to see the team move the ball and put up points. Just as important, I want to see mistake-free quarterback play where the quarterback does nothing dangerous with the ball. A 10 point half where an interception also sets up a Bengals touchdown isn't going to make me happy. Neither is a half where the Jets neither turn it over nor put up points. Neither is a half with no turnovers but two dropped interceptions. I want high quality play.

Stephen Hill

Many people I respect say that Hill played better last week than his zero catch stat line would indicate. I would be more sympathetic to this position if I hadn't been hearing it for the better part of two years to explain Hill's lack of production. At some point the excuses need to end, and he needs to produce. He reportedly had a rough week of practice following his zero against the Colts. While a big night from Hill wouldn't necessarily mean he is destined for a breakout season, we need something from him on which we can hang hope.

Breno Giacomini

When the Jets signed Breno in the offseason, many were concerned with his pass blocking. He did little to alleviate those concerns in his preseason debut. A clean pocket would really help Geno out.

Jeremiah George

With A.J. Edds impressing against the Colts, things might get shaky for the fifth round pick. It looked like the Jets were giving him a look as a coverage linebacker on passing downs, but he struggled to be in the right place. It looked like he was responsible for the blown assignment resulting in an Indianapolis touchdown.

Tajh Boyd

By all accounts Boyd has looked lost in training camp. As the head coach's handpicked selection in the sixth round, it seemed like he had a leg up in the race for the third quarterback spot. He might be playing his way off the roster. He could really use a strong outing.