Geno Smith’s NFL story began with the New York Jets in 2013. On Sunday, it brings him back to MetLife Stadium with a new challenge: trying to lift a 2-7 Jets team against the 7-1 Buffalo Bills. Buffalo arrives after two powerful wins, while New York is trying to turn close-game lessons into a home-field breakthrough.

Smith has given the Jets a steady passing game, throwing for more than 2,000 yards with 12 touchdown passes in nine games. His best target has been Garrett Wilson, whose quick cuts and sure hands have helped him collect 527 receiving yards. Wilson is listed as questionable, so his status will matter greatly. If he plays, Buffalo must keep track of him on every route. If he cannot go, Smith will need other receivers to step forward.

The Jets also need Breece Hall to help set the game’s pace. Hall can burst through a small gap or catch a short pass and race into open space. He has played only four games this season, but New York’s offense looks more balanced when he is involved. The Bills have allowed 330.4 yards per game, which means the Jets may find room if they stay patient and avoid the mistakes that stopped several drives in Kansas City last week.

That patience will be vital because Buffalo can score in a hurry. The Bills average 32 points per game, and their attack has two powerful engines. Josh Allen can launch deep throws, fire passes over the middle, or pull the ball down and run when the defense gives him space. He already has nine rushing touchdowns, showing why defenders cannot focus only on his arm.

Then comes James Cook III. Cook rushed for 107 yards and a touchdown in Buffalo’s latest win, a 23-6 victory over Minnesota. He has 814 rushing yards and eight touchdowns this season, using sharp cuts and speed to turn ordinary runs into big gains. The Jets surrendered 35 points to Kansas City last time out, and their front line faces a tough task against Cook’s quick feet and Allen’s strength.

Buffalo’s defense has also shown it can change a game. Against Minnesota, the Bills grabbed two interceptions near their own goal line, stopping drives when the Vikings were close to scoring. That is an important warning for Smith. He has protected the ball well for much of the season, but Buffalo’s defenders will try to crowd Wilson, pressure the quarterback, and force rushed throws.

The Jets are dealing with several injuries along their defensive front, and Buffalo’s offensive line has questions too. Bills tight end Dalton Kincaid is also questionable with an ankle injury. Those absences could shape the battle near the line, where blockers and defenders collide on every snap.

New York has the home crowd, Smith’s experience, and playmakers who can create a surprise. Still, Buffalo has been the more complete team, with a strong running game, a dangerous quarterback, and recent proof that its defense can finish games. The Bills should win, but the Jets can make them earn every yard at MetLife Stadium.

Geno Smith Returns to MetLife as Bills Bring Their Fast Start