(07-15-2019, 11:09 AM)anonymous2112 Wrote: I agree with Marty.  If the offense improves to the point that we are performing 5+ minute drives on a regular basis instead of our 90 second 3 & outs, the defense stays rested, and much more effective.

It's interconnected, the same way a great secondary makes those sack numbers start to stack up.  

To Wolfie's point, the defense might not be 2017 Jags level, but that defensive team is, if not the best, then one of the best of the decade.  It would be a high standard to reach.

Even if our 2019 defense is not as good as our 2017 defense, statistically they could be much better, because they won't be out there all game long with the other team protecting a lead by running the ball down our throat.   If we are ahead in games, rather than behind, the other team will have to pass, and that plays right into our strengths- rushing the passer and covering the receivers.  Being ahead in games will allow us to unleash the pass rush.  

So, our 2019 defense, while qualitatively maybe or maybe not as good as 2017, statistically they will be much better, because of the offensive improvement.  Less time on the field, and better situations.   This is so obvious I don't see how anyone can argue with it.

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