JACKSONVILLE, Fla — The theme for the Jaguars defense since beating the Saints is: Think take-aways.
The Jaguars are among leaders in takeaways in the NFL, currently.
They had nine after their first three wins in their current four game win streak. The Jaguars are currently, 5-2.
By now, it's no surprise that the Jags defense is getting a lot of love and attention.
We've been talking about it since week one.
At practice on Wednesday, Jaguars Safety Andrew Wingard was wearing his "think takeaways" shirt and letting the world see it. He said for him, it's all about "manifesting" takeaways until they happen.
Thus far, you can say it's been working.
Through week 7, the Jaguars lead the league in takeaways with 16 overall. Right behind them are the Buffalo Bills with 14. Then behind them, the New York Jets with 13.
On top of that, the Jaguars are ranked second in interceptions in the NFL with 9. The San Francisco 49ers have 11. Behind the Jaguars are the Buffalo Bills.
The Jaguars, as they should be, are getting attention.
With this mindset of "manifesting: think takeaways", they're on track to keep their streak going.
Wingard said "visualizing, picturing ourselves punching the ball out, getting interceptions, stuff like that. It's the key in pivotal moments."
Head Coach, Doug Pederson said the second go-around with the Colts was a good example of how important takeaways are.
“I think if you just look at the numbers, it tells the tale. It’s significant. When the numbers favor us, if you go back to the Colts game, 17 points that come off of takeaways. That’s huge, that’s three possessions and it’s big for our team. It’s opportunistic and the team we’re playing this Sunday is the same way," said Pederson.
They're on the road for week eight against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Kickoff is at 1 p.m.