Opposing pass rushers have welcomed Geno Smith with opened arms, as the New York Jets' rookie quarterback has been sacked nine times through two games.
Smith's sack total could be even bigger, but the West Virginia product had quickly learned that taking a beating is just part of playing the position, and if he's going to take that beating, he's going to get something out of it.
Smith showed a lot of toughness against the New England Patriots last Thursday, stepping into a handful of throws for completions despite getting drilled by Patriots defenders.
One of his receivers -- and an important one, at that -- took notice.
"After watching the film, it showed that he has poise and that he understands what it takes to be a professional quarterback," Jets receiver Santonio Holmes said this week, via TheJetsBlog.com. "In order to be great, sometimes you have to stand in the pocket a little bit longer and take those shots from the defense.
"To be able to deliver the ball down the field, the way he did, shows that he’s has great character and he really wants to drive and be the best for this team."
Smith will get another chance to earn the respect of his peers when he takes on the division rival Buffalo Bills and former Jets defensive coordinator Mike Pettine's aggressive scheme Sunday. Bills defensive end Mario Williams is coming off a team-record 4.5 sacks last week.
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"To be able to deliver the ball down the field, the way he did, shows that he’s has great character and he really wants to drive and be the best for this team."
Smith will get another chance to earn the respect of his peers when he takes on the division rival Buffalo Bills and former Jets defensive coordinator Mike Pettine's aggressive scheme Sunday. Bills defensive end Mario Williams is coming off a team-record 4.5 sacks last week.
Follow Nick @NickStDenis
Follow AFC East Daily @AFCEastDaily
