Former England coach Eddie Jones has blamed Steve Borthwick's pre-tournament comments about a potential title decider for the team's dramatic Six Nations collapse. Jones suggested Borthwick's uncharacteristic public statements about facing France in a championship decider may have created overconfidence within the squad. England now faces the prospect of their lowest-ever Six Nations finish after back-to-back heavy defeats to Scotland and Ireland.

Borthwick had boldly declared his team's ambitions before the tournament, stating they wanted to be in position to challenge for the title against France in Paris. However, successive losses have left England fighting to avoid embarrassment rather than competing for silverware. The defeats have also raised questions about the team's perceived revival under Borthwick, with their previous 12-Test winning streak now being reassessed.

Jones argued that the Rugby Football Union's pressure for fan engagement may have influenced Borthwick's bullish tone. He suggested players' psychology shifted after hearing their coach's public ambitions, leading them to look ahead rather than focus on immediate challenges. With crucial matches against Italy and France remaining, Borthwick's team selection and ability to restore focus will be tested as scrutiny intensifies over his project's longevity.