There aren't any shortcuts.  Gus's scheme has worked well in certain games.  The run defense is solid.  We have CBs that can play man coverage, which is a big part of the scheme.  But the scheme relies on an effective pass rush from the 4 DL.  The pass rush was much better with a healthy Marks in the game.  His relentless push up the middle would often send the play right to an unsuspecting Branch or Clemons for a cheap sack.  

 

But there's no help on the way this season.  Gus can't do anything about the injuries or the lack of talent.  He's been trying to find ways to generate a pass rush without exposing the back end - it's not that easy.  They weren't getting home even rushing 6 or 7. 

 

In the offseason we're gonna need some new blood at LB and Leo, and still need to find a playmaker at FS.  Another good CB wouldn't hurt.  If Dave can land a great player in FA, like CB Josh Gordon or a good pass rusher, that would allow a lot of flexibility in the draft.  We need Marks and Fowler, but we need other good players at their positions, too.  Time to stack up talent on the defensive side.    

 

As for NOT ON GUS, I agree that most of the losses are still due to youth and inexperience - WR drops vs Carolina, Jason Myers misses, Cory Grant fumble, Blake Bortles INTs, Nick Marshall fumble, Jason Myers misses...first and 2nd year players costing us games with key mistakes.  Until the defense is fixed, this team has a small margin for mistakes.  But even with this leaky D, a few plays here or there and the Jags would be .500. 

 

NOT ON GUS and give Gus another year to complete the vision.  They are building for long-term success.  Still need a few more bricks but the wall is gonna be solid. 

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