Fitzpatrick to remain Jets' starting QB, says Bowles

"Fitz will be back next week," Bowles told reporters after the Jets (1-5) fell to the Cardinals 28-3 for their fourth straight defeat.

"(In baseball) If a starting pitcher isn't doing it in this game, this day, you put in a relief pitcher."

The Jets found no relief even after Bowles pulled Fitzpatrick in favor of Geno Smith with 8:40 remaining in the game.

For Smith, it was his first appearance of the season and he was clearly not in form, tossing an interception and committing a fumble in limited action.

Fitzpatrick finished the night with just 174 yards and one interception. He now has an NFL-high 11 interceptions thrown.

"Tonight was a mixture of things, but in the first half especially, I didn't hit some throws that I've got to hit," Fitzpatrick said. "There were probably four occasions where I could've made a better play. I think we had some penalties but we still had the throws, and I just didn't make them."

The Jets are without No. 2 receiver Eric Decker, out with a torn labrum, and with the offense spiraling Fitzpatrick has had some forgettable outings including a six-interception effort against Kansas City last month.

But the QB play has not compelled Bowles to make a permanent change just yet.

"Until I talk with my coaches, as the season goes forward, if we decide to do that, we'll do it," Bowles said.

Meanwhile, Smith is hoping to earn a long term chance as the signal-caller.

"As a competitor, I want to play at all times," Smith said. "Can't reiterate that enough.

"I'm going to be ready whenever my number is called. Whenever I get my chance, whenever that is, I will go out there and do my best."