4 days ago
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(This story was updated to add new information.)
Along with the Jacksonville Jaguars' offense, the defense under Anthony Campanile is operating at a high level as well.
Over the last six games, the Jaguars' defense has been one of the stingiest in football, allowing only 14.3 points per game. This unit also continues to be one of the best at forcing takeaways.
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So what has led to the defense's current play? Linebacker Devin Lloyd weighed in.
"Stop the run, limit explosives, and create takeaways," Lloyd said. "I think in that, it's just being very detailed with each level. Eyes, feet, hands, violent finish, he (Campanile) always preaches that."
In each of those categories, the Jaguars have been excellent this season.
The Jacksonville run defense allowed the fewest rushing yards per game in football this season and ranked fifth in yards per rush allowed.
According to Sharp Football, the Jaguars have allowed the fifth-lowest explosive play rate this season.
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In terms of takeaways, the 31 turnovers generated by the Jaguars are the second-most in the NFL.
As Lloyd mentions, that success starts with an emphasis on fundamentals and technique, but also contributing to Jacksonville's defensive production are the variety of looks Campanile throws at opposing offenses.
This can help put the Jaguars' own defenders in a position to make plays, while causing some chaos for an opposing offense, leading to mistakes.
Teams don't win eight games in a row by accident. Across the board, on offense and defense, the Jaguars are playing at a high level heading into the playoffs.
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This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: Behind Jaguars' high level play on defense heading into playoffs
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