The problem was that Darnold short-circuited scoring chances with interceptions that were the result of either poor decisions, slippage in fundamentals or a combination of factors.
His 10 interceptions and 13 turnovers overall are both an NFL-high. O’Connell continues to express confidence in Darnold, but he’s walking a tightrope as a play-caller, especially if other teams adopt Jacksonville’s blueprint and employ a heavy dose of shell coverage.
Both Jefferson and O’Connell acknowledged the difficulties in relying on drives that last 12, 14, 16 plays on a consistent basis. It’s wonderful in theory, but too many negative things can happen to bank on that approach consistently.
O’Connell preaches the importance of “explosives” and Jefferson is at his best when he stretches defenses.
The challenge for O’Connell is to find new ways to get Jefferson and Addison downfield opportunities against schemes designed to limit them without making things overly complicated for his quarterback.
“It doesn’t really matter how defenses play other teams,” Jefferson said. “When we step foot on that field, the whole defense changes.”