Our friends at profootballfocus have done the math and presented the results (http://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2011/09/30/signature-stats-snapshot-pass-blocking-efficiency/), and it appears there is some reason for optimism in the the Jaguars' ability to protect the quarterback.

One should always look a little deeper, and not uncritically take numbers at face value.

Has the competition thus far been subpar? Have defenders slipped when "thisclose"? Did the rain make pressuring the quarterback a difficult if not impossible task?

I don't know. We may soon begins to find answers to those and other questions. The early indications, however, are that the Jags' offensive line (and I'm sure TE and backfield help) are so far doing a pretty decent job of keeping pressure off the quarterback. Considering the starting QB has thus far been a journeyman and rookie, I think a lot of the credit has to go to the men (not "pussies") butting heads with the guys wearing different colored uniforms. The even mention Monroe and some positive things in the same sentence.

The biggest reason for my optimism, though, is the anticipated growth of the new guy under center. He hasn't exhibited the feared propensity to dash from the pocket when he feels pressure. He's shown an ability to step up into the pocket. He's rumored to have a quick release, quicker than any we've seen in previous games, at least from the guy wearing the Jaguars uniform.

Does this mean I think the Jags are going to remain at or near the top throughout the season? (Don't know, there's a  lot of season left.) Does it mean Gabbert possesses an elusiveness not seen in recent years (Post-Brunell.. who could eluse with the best of them before the knee)? (Too small a sample.) Does it mean there's hope for the Jags passing game to improve from 32nd in the league? (Well... in a word, yes. I don't expect to see them shoot to the top of the rankings. That would be a bit unrealistic.)

What isn't unrealistic, however, is to expect to see the Jaguars passing offense to become more of an option, more of a threat, more of an element that Jaguars opponents will have to game plan for. And that can only help the running game, and the bottom line.