The Jacksonville Jaguars are looking to capitalize on a favorable late-season schedule, even as they navigate the absence of quarterback Trevor Lawrence.
Following a 10-6 victory against Tennessee, the Jaguars (3-10) face a series of opponents who have been eliminated from playoff contention. Their upcoming games include a home matchup against the New York Jets (3-10), a road trip to Las Vegas (2-11), and a home game against the Titans (3-10), culminating in a season finale at Indianapolis (6-7). This stretch presents an opportunity for the Jaguars to build momentum as they prepare to retain most of their starters for the 2025 season.
However, the outcome of these games is unlikely to influence owner Shad Khan’s upcoming decisions regarding general manager Trent Baalke and head coach Doug Pederson. The current GM-HC duo has faced criticism for failing to construct a competitive roster and for not facilitating Lawrence’s development effectively. The Jaguars have lost 15 of their last 19 games, with 10 of those defeats coming by a single score.
The Jaguars celebrated a much-needed victory on Sunday, marking their first win since defeating New England in London in October. The team ended a five-game losing streak in Nashville and secured their first road win since November 2023. Running back Tank Bigsby, who rushed for 55 yards and scored the game-winning touchdown, expressed the team’s relief and joy. “I forgot how it feels. It’s a great feeling,” he said. “It’s just a good feeling to see everybody happy. We work so hard, and it’s an amazing opportunity.”
With December’s schedule featuring teams with little to play for, Jacksonville has a chance to gain further traction. Center Mitch Morse emphasized the importance of maintaining focus: “It’s our job as professionals to march forward. I thought we’ve done a good job of that.”
Defensive Improvements
Jacksonville’s defense delivered one of its strongest performances of the season against Tennessee, limiting the Titans to 272 total yards and successfully stopping three fourth-down attempts, including a crucial play from the 9-yard line in the final minutes. This effort has propelled the Jaguars from last place to 28th in total defense.
Offensive Concerns
While the Jaguars’ defense shone, quarterback Mac Jones struggled with turnovers. The 2021 first-round pick has recorded five interceptions and a lost fumble in three starts. Although his mistakes against Tennessee did not lead to points, they are issues that could prove costly in future games.
Player Highlights
Rookie Brian Thomas Jr. had a standout game, catching eight passes for 86 yards. He has emerged as a key target, especially with injuries sidelining fellow receivers Gabe Davis and Christian Kirk. Thomas now has 54 receptions for 851 yards and six touchdowns, putting him on the verge of breaking the franchise record for rookie receiving yards, previously held by Justin Blackmon (865 yards in 2012).
“I just want to come out here and focus on being the best that I can be,” Thomas stated.
Challenges Ahead
Conversely, receiver Devin Duvernay has struggled to make an impact since signing a two-year, $8.5 million contract. He recorded just three receptions for 8 yards against Tennessee, contributing to a disappointing season with career-low averages in several categories.
Injury Update
Right tackle Anton Harrison missed the game due to illness but is expected to return to practice on Wednesday.
Looking Forward
As of Monday, the Jaguars hold the fifth overall pick in the upcoming draft. With a favorable schedule ahead, they risk playing themselves out of a top-10 selection. Meanwhile, Lawrence is awaiting clearance from the league’s concussion protocol before undergoing surgery to repair his left, non-throwing shoulder.
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