Did the Jets find an answer, or merely a scapegoat, by firing Robert Saleh?
Oct 8, 2024
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Diante Lee, NFL Analyst at The Ringer, and John Shipley, Jacksonville Jaguars writer, dive into the surprising firing of Jets coach Robert Saleh and its implications. They analyze the Chiefs’ strategic win against the Saints and shed light on the Seahawks' defensive issues. The duo wrestles with the Jaguars' struggles and the crucial need for offensive adaptations, particularly around Trevor Lawrence. Additionally, they discuss the dire state of the Browns' offense and the future prospects for teams with recent coaching changes.
The surprising firing of Robert Saleh raises questions about accountability and direction within the Jets organization's leadership.
Analyzing the Chiefs' victory over the Saints highlights the effectiveness of their offensive strategy against a struggling defense.
The Jaguars' defense has faced significant challenges due to inexperienced corners, negatively impacting their overall performance and scheme flexibility.
Trevor Lawrence's development as a quarterback is crucial for the Jaguars' success, particularly in high-pressure situations where decision-making is critical.
Deep dives
Importance of Thursday Night Football
Thursday Night Football has become a staple for NFL fans, providing prime opportunities to catch exciting matchups weekly. This week’s game features the historic rivalry between the San Francisco 49ers and Seattle Seahawks, adding layers of anticipation and significance to the matchup. Coverage kicks off at 7 p.m. Eastern, showcasing not only the showdown on the field but also the pre-game discussions and analysis. Fans can take advantage of Prime Video's 30-day free trial, bringing the excitement of live NFL action directly to their screens.
Coach and Player Accountability
Coaching decisions and player performances are crucial in shaping the trajectory of a team's season. This episode highlights the critical evaluation of the Jacksonville Jaguars after a rocky start, discussing where Trevor Lawrence stands in relation to the struggles of the entire offense. The conversation underlines how inconsistencies in both coaching approaches and player execution lead to underwhelming results. The focus on accountability raises questions about who ultimately bears the responsibility when the team fails to meet expectations.
Defensive Struggles of the Jaguars
The podcast delves into the difficulties faced by the Jaguars defense, which has ranked near the bottom of the league in several major metrics. A crucial point made is the impact inexperienced corners have had on their overall performance, forcing coaches to abandon certain schemes that don't suit players. The adjustments in their defensive approach have only left the team more vulnerable, as opposing offenses have exploited these mismatches. Addressing these gaps could be critical for the Jaguars if they hope to improve their playoff chances.
Future Prospects for the Jaguars
Looking forward, there is a discussion about the potential need for a coaching overhaul if the Jaguars continue to underperform. The emphasis is on hiring a coach who can establish a modern offensive scheme, ideally one that has proven successful elsewhere, like Ben Johnson from the Lions. This change could revitalize the team's performance, augment their existing talent, and help foster a more cohesive strategy moving forward. Additionally, addressing personnel needs through the draft and free agency will be essential to rebuild and sustain the team's competitiveness.
Trevor Lawrence's Development
Trevor Lawrence's evolution as a quarterback becomes a focal topic amid the Jaguars' struggles, with discussions around his inconsistent performances. While talent surrounding him has improved, Lawrence’s own decision-making has been questioned, particularly in high-pressure situations. His ability to capitalize on successful offensive setups plays a crucial role in determining the overall success of the team. The conversation underscores the need for Lawrence to consistently deliver, especially when everything else falls into place.
Analyzing Team Chemistry
Another significant aspect discussed is the chemistry within the Jaguars organization, particularly between the coaching staff and players. There is a noted sense of unity despite their struggles, refuting any narrative that the team is fractured or lacking morale. This resilience speaks to a level of professionalism among players, emphasizing that they still respect their coaching staff. Building on this chemistry will be vital as they move forward, especially if changes to the coaching staff or strategy are established.
Financial Implications of Changes
An essential part of the discussion is the financial flexibility the Jaguars possess heading into the offseason, including significant cap space for potential roster upgrades. This represents a pivotal opportunity to acquire talent that can help create a more competitive environment. Decisions made in relation to current contracts and how the front office allocates resources will heavily influence the team's direction. Thus, utilizing their financial muscle efficiently could determine the Jaguars' ability to rebound in forthcoming seasons.
We're used to big news dropping on Tuesdays, but this one was entirely different. The Robert Saleh firing—especially the timing of it—surprised the NFL world, and that's where Robert Mays and Diante Lee of The Ringer begin this episode of The Athletic Football Show. The guys also recap the Chiefs' win over the Saints on Monday Night Football, dig into the Seahawks' run defense and the deteriorating situation in Cleveland, and bat around questions for three good offenses—the Texans, Bengals, 49ers and Bills.
Then, John Shipley from Sports Illustrated joins to engage in some franchise counseling for the Jacksonville Jaguars.
