20man: In my opinion, the problem on third down is execution, and it’s across the board.
Last week’s issues on third down were a combination of pressure upfront, a couple poor throws by quarterback Jared Goff, drops by pass catchers, and head coach Dan Campbell wanting some play calls back on third down. That’s a lot to unpack.
There are too many weapons on this offense to currently rank 27th in third-down efficiency at just 36 percent. They were fourth-best last season at nearly 50 percent.
I think the one constant in the equation throughout the year has been the inconsistency upfront along the offensive line, especially when they face good fronts or defenses that come after them via the blitz. There could be a little bit of help coming their way in that regard, but it’s an issue Campbell and run game coordinator/offensive line coach Hank Fraley must figure out.