3 discouraging stats from the Jaguars loss to the Chiefs in the playoffs

2. Jaguars RB Travis Etienne only got 12 carries vs. the Chiefs

The Jaguars’ offense is built around Trevor Lawrence, so it makes sense that the coaching staff will lean on him heavily. On the other hand, having a balanced game plan puts you in a favorable position to win. While running the ball 35 times per game isn’t feasible in today’s NFL and it isn’t a recipe for sustained success, establishing the running game is still important, as it prevents opposing teams from stacking the box.

Against the Chiefs, Jacksonville only ran 19 times and Etienne had 12 carries, which is kind of puzzling when you take into account that they had success on the ground. It’s true that it’s harder to run the ball when you’re playing from behind but the Jags never trailed by more than 10 points and could have easily dialed up a few more runs.

Doug Pederson showed a preference for passing throughout the regular season even when running might have made more sense. Etienne only logged 20 rushes or more five times despite the fact that he averaged 5.1 yards per carry.

Conversely, he had 10 or fewer nine times last year. Of course, added context is necessary. The former Clemson only became the Jags’ lead back until Week 7, and three of those games in which he had 10 carries or less came when James Robinson was still on the team. Then again, Robinson himself only crossed the 20-carry mark once before he was traded to the New York Jets.

Pederson doesn’t have to give Etienne the ball 25 times per game but it would be a good idea to get him even more involved in 2023.