The Patriots take on the Jaguars in London. It is a game that the Patriots can win but they will need to execute on both sides of the ball.
Here are five things they are going to need to on offense and defense.
Offense
1. 3-Step rhythm: Alex Van Pelt will need to get Drake Maye into a rhythm and the best way to do it is three step drop. Get Maye going early with some three step concepts against a secondary that is vulnerable.
Diagram 1: 3-Step passing game
2. Compress formations in the passing game: The Patriots need to compress formations to create space for their receivers in the passing game. Look for them to do this out of 10, 11 and 12 personnel. Freeing up receivers today will be key to getting the ball out quick and making plays in the passing game.
Diagram 2: Compressed formation utilizing a high low out concept.
3. Run at their ends: The Patriots need to run at Travon Walker and Josh Hines-Allen. The goal is to slow them down by wearing them down. Look for plenty of outside zone and one back power and counter to force them to take on blocks.
4. Three level passing attack: The Patriots should throw the ball a bunch in this game against the league’s worse secondary. Attacking all three levels will be key. Look for plenty of five step passes as the Patriots look to push the ball down the field.
Diagram 3: Leveled passing game
5. Perimeter and off-tackle screens: The Patriots need to slow down the Jaguars pass rush and the easiest way to do it in the passing game is to use perimeter and H-screens. Invite the pass rush up field and take advantage of their aggressiveness.
Diagrams 4 & 5: H and perimeter screens
Defense
1.Sim pressure: Moving and disguising will be key today against Trevor Lawrence. The Patriots have to simulate pressure and force Lawrence to have to hold the ball. He has struggled this season when he has had to work the progression and delivery.
Diagram 6: Sim Blitz and Drop
2. Disguise on second and third down: The Patriots need to disguise as much as possible on passing downs. Show man and bail to zone. Show single high and drive to a two high look. The more movement in the secondary, the better.
Diagrams 7 & 8: Disguises
3. 8 Man fronts on early downs: The Patriots have struggled to stop the run in recent weeks. It is not enough to fit the safeties post snap. The Patriots will need to break the huddle in eight man fronts, especially on first down and any short yardage situation.
Diagram 9: Eight man front
