Is Geno Smith Showing A Lack Of Maturity?

I've tried to be patient with Geno, I've defended him at every turn this off-season but his recent media boycott has me questioning whether he'll ever have the mental fortitude to start in New York.

I don't care what anybody says, being a starting QB in New York is different than anywhere else. The fans tend to be tougher on the players, the media scrutiny is unimaginable and the thickness of skin required would make John's coonskin hat look like a do-rag. Which is why Geno's recent media boycott has me questioning his mental make-up.

Let me first say that I don't believe booing Geno in his pre-season debut was justified, in fact I thought it was pretty bush league of the fans who took part. It must be hard to be booed at home in a meaningless game...in your home stadium. However as a professional, you just need to deal with it.

Following the game, Geno refused to speak to reporters, which the Post claimed was a violation of NFL policy. It's believed he took exception to several stories relating to the one year anniversary of him getting punched by then team-mate IK Enemkpali. He continued his media boycott throughout the week, refusing numerous interview requests and posting not so cryptic tweets about the media making stories up.

It's plainly obvious that it got to him, it got under his skin and it ruffled him. He followed this with a very uneven week of practice with him having a bad day, then a good day, then a bad day. At one point he was so frustrated he slammed his helmet into the ground after getting intercepted several times.

It's going to be interesting to see Geno tonight, as if he has an uneven performance...pressure will start to build. Whether we like it or not, the media have a huge influence over a large portion of the fanbase. Some religiously believe the likes of Manish and Cimini, and if they're against you, then winning over the crowd gets harder and harder. With Geno giving them ammunition, he's only hurting himself.