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Jaguars' Miller Graded Top NFL Linebacker by Wide Margin
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- Jaguars' Miller Graded Top NFL Linebacker by Wide Margin
(USA TODAY Network/Reuters Connect)
Through the opening five weeks, the Jacksonville Jaguars' defense has been stellar, posting the lowest average rushing yards allowed to opponents and limiting damage through the air.
The linebacking duo of Ventrell Miller and Foyesade Oluokun have anchored the attack, playing well alongside each other in defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile's aggressive scheme.
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On Thursday, Pro Football Focus (PFF) recognized the two players' efforts, with Miller and Oluokun both being graded within the top 10 at their position.
Oluokun (74.3) came in at No. 10, while Miller (91.8) topped the graphic, beating out former All-Pro San Francisco 49ers linebacker Fred Warner (83.5).
Miller's impressive grade speaks to how well he has played this season, while his numbers back it up.
Thus far, Miller has recorded 33 total tackles, adding a sack, and helping Jacksonville mitigate the opposing running game.
Miller has recorded six or more tackles in all but one game, adding a forced fumble and two passes defensed.
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Forcing fumbles is a strength for the former fourth-round pick, as he forced two last season and has looked aggressive in his opportunities this year.
This offseason, Jaguars star EDGE Joshua Hines-Allen made a bold prediction for Miller, saying that he will lead the entire league in punch-outs this upcoming season.
While he has a long way to cashing in his teammate's belief, Miller's risen level of play continues to anchor Jacksonville's defense.
Against the Cincinnati Bengals , Miller had one of his quieter games this season, but played a strong part in the overall defensive effort that held Joe Burrow to 17 points.
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The following week, Miller added his second pass defensed of the season against Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts, while helping hold Philadelphia as a whole to just 22 rushing yards.
Despite suffering an Achilles tear before ever being able to play during his rookie year, Miller looks like a seasoned veteran, especially in tackling.
Miller does a great job of completing the tackle once engaged and preventing ball carriers from picking up additional yardage.
Entering the Jaguars' first interdivisional showdown of the season, Miller and the Jacksonville front seven will be going against an injured Houston Texans backfield.
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David Montgomery is injured, leaving Woody Marks to handle most of the touches.
Marks is a speedy back, but has struggled to put together consistent rushing performances this season.
Expect Campanile to attack the run early to force the Texans into throwing the ball more often.
