Jaguars: 3 matchups vs. Seahawks that will decide the game

2. Jaguars’ defensive front vs. Seahawks’ offensive line.

The Jaguars’ defense has done an adequate job of applying pressure in 2021. They rank 15th in the league with a 43 percent team pass rush win rate. Edge rusher Josh Allen has had an impact after missing eight games last season. He’s logged 2.5 sacks and 19 pressures. Defensive end/outside linebacker Dawueane Smoot has also done a good job upfront in spite of posting just one sack, registering a team-high 24 pressures.

The Jaguars failed to register a sack against the Dolphins but made key plays when it mattered. In Week 8, they will face off against a Seahawks’ offensive line that has given up 23 sacks. Quarterback Geno Smith has played only three games but has already been sacked 10 times. This is a matchup the Jags’ front seven should be able to win.

Especially when you take into consideration that Seahawks left tackle Duane Brown and offensive guard Damien Lewis are listed as questionable. Even if they play, they may not be at full strength. Jaguars head coach Urban Meyer told the local media they’re doing a good job of applying pressure on the edges but they’ve struggled in the interior. If they can improve in this area, Jacksonville should be able to dominate the line of scrimmage.