Bhayshul Tuten
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Jacksonville Jaguars Rookie Running back Bhayshul Tuten
The Jacksonville Jaguars walked away from Sunday’s 31-27 defeat vs the Cincinnati Bengals knowing they let an opportunity slip away. But amid the frustration, one constant strength continued to shine: the ground game. Through two weeks of the regular season, Jacksonville has rushed for 339 yards. Proving that its running backs and offensive line are establishing a dependable identity even in close losses.
Etienne Leads the Charge, Young Backs Add Depth
Against a tough opponent, the Jaguars’ rushing attack once again provided balance and efficiency. Travis Etienne carried the load, producing 71 yards on 14 attempts. His burst and vision allowed Jacksonville to stay ahead of the chains, even when the passing game went through stretches of inconsistency. Rookie Bhayshul Tuten continued to flash promise, finishing with 42 yards on just eight carries. LeQuint Allen Jr. chipped in 13 yards on two attempts, showing that Jacksonville has multiple options who can contribute when called upon.
Head Coach Liam Coen praised the group after the game for their resilience and production.
“I thought it was a little slower to get going at times, but man, I don’t know, we rushed for like 140-something, whatever it was, but efficient,” Coen said on Sunday. “I think we ran it well. I thought both of those backs, really all three of those guys, ran hard and made some plays when they did get hit at the line of scrimmage or behind the line of scrimmage. I was pleased with those guys.”
Liam Coen’s comments reflect a key theme: Jacksonville’s running backs aren’t just picking up yards when holes are wide open. They are creating yardage after contact, showing toughness in tight spaces, and helping the Jaguars stay competitive in difficult situations.
Offensive Line Paves the Way
Behind every strong rushing performance is a line that wins in the trenches. The Jaguars’ front has quietly been one of the team’s biggest strengths. While the passing protection is still a work in progress, Liam Coen expressed confidence in how the unit handled the run game.
“I really thought the front played well. I really do,” Coen said on Sunday.
The offensive line’s push at the point of attack gave Etienne, Tuten, and Allen the lanes needed to keep drives alive. Even in moments where defenders broke through, the group’s overall cohesion allowed the backs to minimize negative plays and extend drives.
For Jacksonville, this isn’t just about statistics—it’s about identity. Over the first two weeks, the Jaguars have demonstrated their ability to control the tempo. Plus, create balance through their ground game. That’s critical for a team still finding rhythm under a new coaching staff. A consistent rushing attack forces defenses to respect play-action. It also opens up options on early downs and builds confidence across the offense.
Looking ahead, the Jaguars will aim to convert strong rushing performances into wins on the scoreboard. If the first two weeks are any indication, this backfield trio, paired with a confident offensive line, gives Jacksonville a reliable foundation to build on as the season unfolds.