Liam Coen Analyzes Jaguars’ Strategy Against Sam Darnold While ESPN Advises Seahawks to Capitalize on Passing Efficiency
The Jacksonville Jaguars are on a roll with back-to-back wins as they prepare to host the Seattle Seahawks at EverBank Stadium. Under the leadership of head coach Liam Coen, the Jaguars are looking to extend their winning streak against a formidable Seahawks team.
Liam Coen’s Approach to Sam Darnold
Coach Liam Coen is strategizing on how to effectively counter quarterback Sam Darnold’s play. Darnold, who recently showcased remarkable performance with four touchdowns against the Buccaneers, is becoming a player to watch.
Coen expressed confidence in using past experiences to devise a successful game plan. He stated, “Anytime you have a good plan against a specific player or unit, you can draw from that.” He emphasized the importance of analyzing past games to understand how to disrupt Darnold’s rhythm.
Seattle Seahawks’ Offensive Strategy
The Seahawks have found their offensive balance, ranking high in run efficiency while leaning more on their passing game. They have recorded a 0.28 Expected Points Added (EPA) per play in passing, compared to -0.07 in the run game.
- Passing: 0.28 EPA per play
- Rushing: -0.07 EPA per play
ESPN analyst Seth Walder predicts that the Seahawks will allow Darnold to air it out against Jacksonville’s defense, which has been notably effective this season. However, the Seahawks must maintain their running game to keep defenses balanced and honest.
Comparative Team Performances
The Jaguars are 4-1 this season, demonstrating a significant improvement from last year’s 4-13 record. Coen has transformed the team, with the defense now allowing only 20 points per game, a drop from 25.6 points last season.
- Jaguars’ 2022 Record: 4-13
- Jaguars’ Current Record: 4-1
- Average Points Allowed This Season: 20
In contrast, the Seahawks, holding a 3-2 record, have displayed an explosive offense but have struggled to maintain leads late in games. Their current odds reflect a challenging matchup, with the Seahawks listed as 1.5-point underdogs, despite their historical advantage in this matchup.
Historical Context and Expectations
Both teams are meeting for the first time in four years. Historically, the Seahawks lead the series 6-3, adding extra intrigue to this contest. Fans can anticipate a closely contested game as both teams are excelling at the right moment.
