Jaguars Need to Pass To Open Up the Run

The Jacksonville Jaguars signed free agent running back Toby Gerhart in the offseason with the expectation of having a run-first offense and utilizing a power rushing attack to set up the pass. With the Jaguars regrettably choosing to start the season with Chad Henne at quarterback, this made sense given the limitations of the veteran signal-caller.

So far, the Jaguars run game has been completely ineffective through 6 weeks. Still, offensive coordinator Jedd Fisch wants to try and maintain a balance to help out rookie quarterback Blake Bortles.

I understand wanting to have an effective running game, but there’s nothing wrong with having your rookie quarterback throw the ball 40 times a game. If he can handle it, which most think he can, then let Bortles take the reigns of the offense and do what he feels most comfortable doing.

Bortles is most often compared to two guys coming into the league – Ben Roethlisberger and Andrew Luck. Roethlisberger had the fortune of going into one of the best possible situations for a rookie quarterback with an established running game and a great defense. Consequently, Roethlisberger only passed on average 21 times a game his rookie season. Conversely, Luck came into a situation more similar to where Bortles is now – not very much around him in terms of established talent, no running game, and a bad defense. Thankfully Luck was and is such a transcendent prospect that he was able to will his team to the playoffs while throwing it a little more than 39 times per game.

Even if Bortles doesn’t have the same type of success winning games as Luck did his rookie season, it makes sense to let Bortles develop a comfort and familiarity with his receivers.  Sorry Jedd, but maybe you should let Bortles drop back 40 times a game.