The Jacksonville Jaguars have put together a nice run early in the season and the run has nothing to do with star quarterback Trevor Lawrence or the offense. The Jaguars are atop the AFC South with a 2-1 record because the defense has been outstanding.
The Jaguars defeated the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday 38-10 to improve to 2-1 and winners of their last two. In Sunday’s win, the Jaguars had one sack and one interception, keeping the Chargers offense at bay. The entire defense has been solid, giving up a total of 38 points in three games. There is not one star amongst the defense but the combination of everyone playing their position.
Although the defense has given up 755 yards passing this season, they have also given up just 139 yards rushing, second in the league, and an average of 306 yards of total offense. Their five interceptions this season are tied for second.
Defensive coordinator Mike Caldwell has this defense playing aggressively, yet smart. They are not giving up many yards, passing or rushing, and keeping the opposition on the field to a minimum. Caldwell knows what it takes to succeed, as he has 14 years of coaching experience and 11 years as a player. He has kept this defensive unit together and focused.
One of the main players contributing to the success of the defense has been a linebacker, Devin Lloyd. Lloyd has 17 tackles, with 11 being solo. Foyesade Oluokun is second with 14 tackles, nine of them solo. Outside linebacker Josh Allen has also been key, registering two sacks so far and two forced fumbles, while multiple players are tied with one interception.
The key to their success so far is they have been a patient group. The Jaguars defense has not jumped the gun or let the opposing receivers get behind them. They have been aggressive but at the right times. This defense, not the offense, could be the reason the Jaguars make it to the playoffs. The Jaguars have the right group to make a statement as Jacksonville looks to maintain the top of the AFC South.
This defense is not talked about enough. The Jacksonville defense is hungry, young, and aggressive. With them only giving up less than 13 points per game so far, this proves to be noteworthy as the Jaguars are trying to make the playoffs this season. The season is still young but the Jaguars defense is putting other teams on notice. This could be the year that Jacksonville puts it all together.
(photo: jacksonville.com; John Reid)
For More Great Football Content
Follow us on Twitter at @GridironHeroics for more great content. We appreciate you taking time to read our articles. To interact more with our community and keep up to date on the latest in Football news, JOIN OUR FREE FACEBOOK GROUP by CLICKING HERE
