Jaguars' QB David Garrard: What if it was the offensive line...?

After a stellar performance in week one, the question must be asked... What if the collapse of the offensive line in 2008 was the true reason for David's struggles? We all remember the mass assault on the lower extremities of the offensive line at the start of the 2008 season. From that point forward, David has not been the same. He was the most hit quarterback in the league last season and has shown a propensity to make mistakes when pressured.

Fast forward to 2010...

David Garrard just opened the season against two stellar corners in Bailey and Goodman. David was given ample time in the pocket and was able to throw three TD's passes, two of which went to the Jaguars' clear red-zone threat Marcedes Lewis. David finished with a 76.2 completion percentage and a passer rating of 138.9. For those of you keeping score at home, that's the third highest in team history. 

Justin Smiley and Uche Nwaneri seem to have the middle well accounted for, and Brad Meester seems to be playing at a higher level than last season, but will face a stiff test in Antonio Garay (pronounced - Ga-Ray) this Sunday. John Gerrano from the website Bolts from the blue raved about Garay's ability to not only stuff the run, but also pressure the QB from the NT. It's going to be an early season test for the offensive guards, that much is certain.

The Offensive Tackles are another position that has undergone a drastic change since the debacle of the 2008 season. 2009 First and second-round picks Eugene Monroe and Eben Britton have shown vast improvement over their rookie seasons already, and this offensive line is ready to go. If the Jaguars can return to their 2007 form, we'll see Garrard's play improve accordingly.

-Collin Streetman