3 takeaways from Jaguars vs Rams

The Jaguars were beaten soundly 35-7 by the Rams in week 7. The same issues that have plagued the Jaguars all season came back to bite them once again and were quickly handled by a much better team. There was a lot of bad play in week 7, so here are the 3 biggest takeaways from the game.

The offensive line is an average unit

What originally appeared to be an elite unit for the Jaguars has quickly been exposed, allowing 17 sacks in the last 3 games, with back-to-back 7-sack games in the last 2 weeks. As the competition increased, the offensive line quickly proved they are not in the same tier as other teams.

Just in the past 2 games, they have allowed 43 total pressures. An unreal number that has played a huge part in the offensive struggles. Brenton Strange's injury has certainly impacted this unit, but they have still greatly underperformed over the last 3 weeks.

After the bye week, the Jaguars will play a week stretch of pass-rushing units, with just 1 of the next 5 teams they will face ranking in the top 10 in sacks. This stretch will be crucial to see what adjustments are made and if they can get back to form against weaker competition.

Travis Hunter must play more defense

Travis Hunter has played sparingly on defense, playing only 36% of the total defensive snaps, while seeing a gradual increase in offensive snaps. Hunter has played nearly half a season of NFL football, so he has become accustomed to the physicality and workload.

Despite his limited time on defense, he has made a huge impact. Hunter is allowing a 50% completion percentage, a 68.3 passer rating, and just 106 yards. With the defense getting beat consistently on the back end, it is clear that Travis Hunter is needed on the defensive side of the football.

With the trade of former first-round pick Tyson Campbell for Greg Newsome II, the team desperately needs another outside cornerback. Jourdan Lewis has played well but plays primarily in the slot and is not consistently guarding the opposing team's best receiver. Travis Hunter playing 50-60% of the defensive snaps would bring a huge boost to a struggling pass defense.

The Jaguars need to trade for a pass rusher

Bluntly speaking, the Jaguars pass rush has been awful. Over the last 4 games, the Jaguars have recorded just 1 sack, that being from Arik Armstead. Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker are the only pass rushers who can consistently create pressure, but they have not been able to sack the quarterback, combining for just 2.5 sacks through 7 weeks. Over the last 4 games, the Jaguars have recorded just 1 sack

While a blockbuster deal for someone like Trey Hendrickson is unlikely, a move has to be made if this defense is to see any improvement. Players such as Quinnen Williams or Arden Key are more realistic moves that would improve the pass rush without having to give up hefty draft capital.

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