There is an axiom that football is a game of matchups.

 

Basically, if your team has more favorable matchups than its opponent, then it will likely win the game. 

 

Too often over the past decade, the matchups have not been favorable to the Jaguars.

 

But with the infusion of talent since 2014, the sense is this team is on the upswing.  With this past offseason, it seems like we will have at least 5 new starters on defense. 

 

So going into training camp, which matchups do you think have gone against us over the past decade or so, and which of these matchups now favor us?  Which ones are now even?

 

I think right now, the passing game with the Colts is at least even.  Luck's return-assuming normal health for him-makes it edge Indy.  However, I think the Jaguars' passing game overall is better than the Colts because we have better overall receivers.  Furthermore, even though we ranked 31st last year, based upon the offseason acquisitions, we have a defense better equipped to defend against the pass than the Colts.  Though I like that Fowler has looked good upon his return thus far, and that the Jaguars have added 2 more DEs in Ngakoue and Tyrone Holmes, I am still concerned about being able to pressure Luck

 

Because we will have a faster defense, we are now better equipped to defend against Mariota's running.  With Gipson having the range and ball hawking ability to play FS as it was designed for this defense, Cyprien can now play in the box.  Jack is a far better athlete than Poz or Skuta, and his speed and agility will not only enable him to cover Walker, but also spy Mariota better.  In short, I don't see another 88 yard run for Mariota against this defense.  I also think Ramsey makes us better equipped to defend Dorial Green-Beckham, who hurt us in the 2nd game last year

 

Going into camp, I am still concerned about how we match up against Houston's defense.  I still see no answer for J.J. Watt or Mercilus at the tackle spots, and if Clowney ever puts it all together add him to the mix as well.  If we can get those guys blocked, I think their secondary is ripe for the taking, but they have been a constant headache for our offense.  However, I am now confident we can shut their offense down.  We did a decent job against them in the first game last year for 2.5-3 quarters.  With the improved athleticism and depth along the defense, I think explosions from Hopkins can be mitigated in the future.

 

Thoughts?

 

 

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