Jags offense sputters in first loss of the season

The Jaguars defense showed up as usual on Sunday again against division rival Tennessee. The offense should follow in coming weeks. Photo courtesy: James Crichlow/Jacksonville Business Journal. See the whole gallery here: https://www.bizjournals.com/jacksonville/gallery/441665.

By Dustin Fletcher | gargoyle@flagler.edu

Defense does not always win championships

On Sunday against the Titans, the Jags defense was phenomenal. They gave up less than 10 points, and not a single touchdown. They gave up only 223 yards of total offense, and less than 100 through the air – a staggering statistic. However, they could not produce on offense as Blake Bortles threw for a quarterback rating of 19.4, by far his worst of the season. Offensive games like this cannot continue to happen if the team wants to be successful.

Offense stagnant for second time in three weeks

Before the season, I discussed a concern with the receiving core of the team and the ability to pass the ball. That concern was validated the opening game against the New York Giants when the game included nine straight drives of punts in the second half. This game felt similar to that. Blake Bortles threw for 155 yards on 34 attempts with no touchdowns or interceptions. Countless times, receivers dropped passes, and the execution was not there like it was the week before. Corey Grant was not nearly as effective in the passing or running games, but T.J. Yeldon was a bright spot averaging over 6 yards per carry with 44 yards on seven carries. This offense desperately needs a healthy RB Leonard Fournette and more playmakers out wide.

Josh Lambo is a high-quality kicker

If I have to write about special teams, it’s a clear indicator that not a lot went on in this game. However, kicker Josh Lambo has now made 16 straight field goals dating back to last season. As a kicker, being known as Mr. Consistent is a great thing. Now if only the rest of the team could follow his example.