“We knew what we needed to clean up before we played this game. This is more evidence that it isn’t fixed,” Lewis said. “We need to take this bye and find ways to return to fundamentals and do what we’re supposed to do to stop explosives.” He also noted a communication issue within the group that they plan to address during the time off.
“The defense wasn’t on the same page against the Texans,” Lewis added. “We didn’t communicate well enough. It wasn’t about what they did; it was about us not playing to our standard.”
Through the first five games, the Jaguars had not allowed more than 20 points, suggesting the defense could be a strength in 2026. However, a 34-point performance by the Texans indicated there is work to be done.
Head coach Liam Coen did not sugarcoat the showing, acknowledging problems against both the run and the pass. “It wasn’t good enough for sure. I thought they made too many plays in the passing game, and they ran it better than anyone else we’ve faced so far,” Coen said after the game.
Analysts have noted that this marks the second time this season that defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile was out-schemed, with opponents exploiting mismatches in the passing game. The Jaguars typically employ a bend-but-don’t-break approach, but against the Texans, that strategy appeared to falter.
As the bye week arrives, the defense faces questions across the board. Both Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker carry high expectations, and while neither is underperforming outright, the unit’s performance hasn’t met peak standards. Davon Hamilton had three missed tackles against the Texans, according to Pro Football Focus, and in the secondary, Jarrian Jones conceded several big plays.
Looking ahead, the schedule could ease after the bye, with upcoming divisional games against the Indianapolis Colts and Tennessee Titans. Those contests are within reach, but they are bracketed by a matchup with the Baltimore Ravens, who may be without quarterback Lamar Jackson. The defense will aim to establish a robust identity by Week 10.
