Fitzpatrick to start for Jets vs. Patriots

Fitzpatrick has been named the starting quarterback for Sunday’s contest against the Patriots, Field Yates of ESPN reports.

Well, the Jets have made their decision on who their starting quarterback for Week 12 against the division leading New England Patriots will be.

It’s decision day for Todd Bowles: Ryan Fitzpatrick or Bryce Petty? The Jets started Bryce Petty and, although the Jets lost the game, he finished 19 of 32 with one touchdown and one interception.

He mentioned in his press conference that Fitzpatrick was always the starter and just wasn’t healthy enough to play against the Rams in Week 10. “He knows more of the system”. He’s got a lot more things to learn going forward. He’s been the starter.

Bowles hinted that he doesn’t give jobs away. You got to take a job. At that point, what lipstick-on-pig 2016 gains are worth keeping him on the bench?

It reeks of everything that’s been wrong with this team, a stench getting stronger with every week Petty and Hackenberg are holding matching clipboards. That, however, is a philosophy Bowles doesn’t subscribe to. I’m not into the other argument, ” Bowles said, referring to developing players for the future.

“And, right now, Fitz gives us the best option”. They have six interceptions and just two fumble recoveries, even though they have forced a whopping 14 fumbles on the season. “His time will come later”. “So, we’ll be patient with that”.

Bowles and general manager Mike Maccagnan made it clear last week that Monday’s quarterback decision would be Bowles’ choice. The Jets then had a Week 11 bye. Furthermore, the club is nearly assuredly not bringing back Fitzpatrick next season. He also insisted it will not affect his play or mobility.

Fans might not agree with it but knowing how Bowles handles these kinds of situations, expect to see him likely return to Fitzpatrick under center.

Well, with the Jets 3-7 and two games behind the second-to-last-place Bills in the division with six games to play, the “competitive” portion of that plan no longer applies to 2016.

As customary with a backup passer, Bowles said Petty will take some first-team reps throughout the week.

“Nothing’s changed for me”, Petty said. “He knows what’s best for the team”. He’ll have to continue to sit and learn behind Fitzpatrick and Petty for the time being.

“My feelings are irrelevant”, he said.