LaDainian Tomlinson: Time to sit Ryan Fitzpatrick, start Geno Smith

Quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick is not getting it done for the New York Jets right now. In fact, he’s the only quarterback since Steve DeBerg in 1986 to throw nine interceptions over a two-game span, so you might even say Fitzpatrick is at the heart of Gang Green’s current offensive problems.

But despite Fitzpatrick’s historically bad performances in back-to-back weeks, wide receiver Brandon Marshall continues to passionately stand behind his teammate.

“I’m standing in the ship with him,” Marshall said via USA Today on Sunday. “Obviously, right now, we’re all looking each other in the eyes and holding each other accountable and pushing each other. At the end of the day, I’m going down with the ship with him. I don’t like how any of us are playing. Him, myself, all the starters. We’ve got to pick it up and play better.”

For former Jets running back LaDainian Tomlinson, who admits he respects Marshall’s continued support of Fitzpatrick, the time for PR games has come and gone. The Jets are a mess and in Tomlinson’s view, it’s time for a change; it’s time for a little Geno Smith.

“I get it B, you’re a loyal guy and that’s your quarterback,” Tomlinson said on NFL Network on Monday. “But honestly, it’s time instead of J-E-T-S, you guys got to start going G-E-N-O.

“That’s right, it’s time for Geno. You can’t throw nine picks in two weeks and keep your starting job. Meanwhile Geno Smith beat you out two years ago and he’s still on the bench. C’mon man, roll it. It’s time to get Geno in there because Ryan Fitz-tragic is taking over.”

Tomlinson’s cries for a change at quarterback may fall on deaf ears, however. After the Jets dolled out $12 million for Fitzpatrick prior to the start of the season, it’s highly unlikely the team will sit him on the bench. Of course, another three-plus interception game could change that quick, fast and in a hurry.