Ryan Fitzpatrick Named Jets Starting QB vs. Jaguars: Latest Details, Reaction

Despite the best efforts of Geno Smith, Ryan Fitzpatrick will remain the New York Jets' starting quarterback. Jets head coach Todd Bowles confirmed Fitzpatrick will get the nod against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, per the team's Twitter account.

Fitzpatrick suffered ligament damage in his left thumb, which will require surgery down the road, in the Jets' Week 8 defeat to the Oakland Raiders. According to ESPN.com's Rich Cimini, the 32-year-old was wearing a special glove in practice so as to provide additional protection for the injured thumb.

"It's painful enough to get me out of changing diapers," said Fitzpatrick of the issue, per the Jets. "That's the one positive."

While Smith played well while filling in at QB, many will agree Fitzpatrick gives the Jets the best chance of winning this weekend. Fox Sports' NFL Twitter account assumed fans will taking the news well:

Through New York's first seven games, Fitzpatrick has thrown for 1,518 yards, 11 touchdowns and seven interceptions.

Somewhat surprisingly, the Jets have had one of the better passing games in the NFL this year. Many expected the addition of Brandon Marshall to help New York somewhat, but few foresaw the team improving from 27th in pass-offense DVOA (defense-adjusted value over average) last year to seventh through Week 8, per Football Outsiders.

The Jets currently occupy one of the two wild-card spots in the AFC. One game can make a big difference in the playoff race, so having Fitzpatrick available for Sunday is certainly positive news for New York.