While the Jacksonville Jaguars defense has largely failed to stifle opposing defenses, allowing the second-most yards per game of any time, one player has stood out from the rest in the last few weeks. That player is Jags defensive end, Josh Allen.
Many looked to Allen to lead this defense in 2021. Early on, he struggled to find his footing coming off of a disappointing 2020 season that ended in a knee injury. In the last three games, though, Allen looks better than ever. While he might not be earning awards statistically, his presence has no doubt been felt.
According to Next Gen Stats, Allen was third in pass rush win rate among all edge rushers in Weeks 5 and 6. If I had to guess, he might be either first or second after his game against the Seahawks.
Allen got off to a fast start against Seattle and kept the heat on high, breathing down the neck of quarterback Geno Smith the entire game. Heading into the game, Seattle’s tackles had allowed 18 pressures over their last three games, and Allen came prepared to take advantage.
Allen finished the game with six total tackles, four of which were tackles for loss. He also had his first multi-sack game of the year, notching two in the game, bringing his season total to 4.5. As a result, he’s earned the nod for player of the game Week 8.
Josh Allen stunting. -11 yard sack pic.twitter.com/WULTwcngLa
— Laurie Fitzpatrick (@LaurieFitzptrck) October 31, 2021
Allen has been the defense’s sole bright spot, while the secondary and interior pass rush is struggling mightily to slow down offenses. Coach Urban Meyer noted this earlier this week, pointing out Allen’s and Dawuane Smoot’s high level of play.
If this team wants to have any shot to win, the rest of the defense will have to raise their level of play to match that of their star pass rusher. Allen is showing up and showing out week after week, but will the rest of the team step up?