Through three games, the Jacksonville Jaguars'run game has been more efficient than it was down the stretch last season, and that has played an important role in the offense's early-season success.
Entering Week 4, the Jaguars are averaging 4.2 yards per carry as a team, which ranks 15th in the NFL. Individually, Bhayshul Tuten has been more productive, averaging 4.7 yards per rush attempt, good for the 11th-best mark among all running backs.
Where Tuten has been particularly good is at making defenders miss and picking up that extra yardage. He ranks third in average yards after contact and third in missed tackles forced, according to PFF.
When an offense has a run game to lean on, it can do wonders for the passing game.
"It's beneficial, it's
something we have worked hard at, and it takes all 11," Liam Coen said of the Jaguars' run game success.
A good rushing attack keeps an offense ahead of the sticks and out of predictable passing situations, where the defense has the upper hand. When in short or manageable down-and-distance situations, the playbook now opens up for Liam Coen, as does the passing game for Lawrence.
"I think you can really dictate more when you're running the ball well," quarterback Trevor Lawrence saidon Wednesday.
Continuing to move the ball steadily on the ground will be key in helping the Jaguars' offense as a whole reach its full potential.
This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: Early success in key area gives Jaguars' offense a boost
