Mike Vick Will Start For The Jets Against The Chiefs

Rex Ryan announced today in a press conference that starting quarterback Geno Smith will be benched in favor of Michael Vick for this Sunday’s game against the Kansas City Chiefs.

Smith, who was the 39th overall pick in the 2013 draft and was at one point a consideration for the Chiefs with the number one overall pick, has struggled mightily this season. In eight games he has a 27.6 QBR, 10 interceptions, and completed only 56.2% of his passes. In the Jets loss against the Bills this past Sunday, Smith was 2-for-8 for 5 yards and three interceptions in the first quarter before being benched for Vick.

Vick hasn’t been much better this season in two relief appearances for Smith. He enters Sunday with a 46.4 completion percentage (26-of-56) for 200 yards, an interception, and a 13.1 QBR. Making plays with his legs is something Vick can still do, as he rushed for 69 yards on eight attempts against Buffalo. Kansas City ranks 18th against the run heading into the Jets game.

The Chiefs do have some experience playing Vick under Andy Reid. Vick was the starter for the Philadelphia Eagles in Reid’s return to Philadelphia in week three of last season. In that game Vick completed 43.3% of his passes for 201 yards, a touchdown, and two interceptions, while adding another 99 yards on the ground. It should be noted that was a Thursday night game so that does play into things in terms of preparation and being physically ready to play.

Whether it is Vick or Smith, the Chiefs should be favored to win on Sunday no matter what. If Kansas City can come away with the win then they will be 5-3 and potential the leader for the sixth wild card spot.