Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Liam Coen recently introduced a surprise 100-question test to evaluate his quarterbacks‘ understanding of the offense, including Trevor Lawrence. This move, occurring amid attempts to shift the team’s direction following two difficult seasons under Doug Pederson, has sparked a local journalist’s theory about boosting Lawrence’s confidence. The Jaguars are hoping to improve their performance by ensuring their quarterbacks have a thorough grasp of the playbook and offensive strategies.
Backup quarterback Nick Mullens shared that he scored a “B” on the exam, while Trevor Lawrence led all participants with a score of 85. Coen’s initiative aimed to assess and reinforce the quarterbacks‘ intellectual command of the game, vital for executing plays with precision.
Local Journalist Suggests the Test Was Designed to Bolster Lawrence’s Confidence
Hays Carlyon, a reporter from 1010XL, interpreted the quiz as an intentional strategy by Coach Coen to reinforce Trevor Lawrence’s confidence, particularly emphasizing the cerebral aspect of his role. Carlyon remarked on the coaching approach, highlighting Coen’s emotional intelligence in handling the team’s dynamics.
“I think Liam Cohen does an excellent job to this point — Is a first-time head coach — I think he’s he has done an awesome job in terms of how to emotionally play this team,” —Hays Carlyon, Reporter
He pointed out the significance of the quarterback test where Lawrence outperformed his peers, calling it a potential confidence booster.
“I have a fair amount of skepticism on that, but I think it’s I think it’s important, and I commend Liam Cohen for doing this, because Trevor Lawrence needs that confidence boost. He needs to feel, particularly with that element of his game, the intellectual, cerebral part of playing football. And look, I’m not saying I think it’s a brilliant master stroke by Liam Cohen to present an exercise in which Trevor Lawrence comes out of it as the smartest quarterback. Maybe he was.” —Hays Carlyon, Reporter
Analyzing the Real Impact Behind the Test on Trevor Lawrence
While Carlyon’s theory presents an interesting angle, closer examination suggests the test’s purpose was straightforward: a genuine evaluation of offensive knowledge rather than a deliberate confidence-building tactic. Trevor Lawrence has exhibited solid mental resilience since joining the Jaguars, facing numerous challenges that make special treatment unlikely.
Lawrence has endured significant hurdles, starting with the chaotic tenure of former coach Urban Meyer, whose lack of experience and leadership struggles created an unstable environment. This period hindered Lawrence’s development early in his career. Afterwards, Doug Pederson took over, stabilizing the situation but largely delegating the responsibility of Lawrence’s progression to Press Taylor, Pederson’s assistant.
Despite this turbulence, Lawrence has repeatedly proven himself to be a durable presence, consistently leading the Jaguars in challenging situations rather than showing signs of vulnerability or fragility. His ability to shoulder the team’s offensive burden has been notable a key strength.
Trevor Lawrence’s Performance and Health Will Determine Jaguars’ Future Success
Although Lawrence has room for improvement—marked by fluctuating performances and injuries over the past two seasons—his return from a shoulder injury in 2024 and improved overall health present renewed hope. The Jaguars’ management has also invested in enhancing his supporting personnel, aiming to reduce pressure and increase offensive efficiency.
Coach Coen’s direct coaching style, focusing both on technique and the cognitive aspects of quarterback play, is expected to further support Lawrence’s growth. The combination of a more capable roster and attentive coaching could be pivotal for the Jaguars as they pursue competitiveness in the AFC South division.
Ultimately, the Jaguars appear confident that Lawrence’s progress will come from a combination of improved health, refined skills, and a stronger team framework rather than from symbolic or morale-boosting exercises.