Both stats are a bit misleading for this game. Jax run d was their real Achilles earlier in the year, but they got much better in the second half. Also, they may play Ramsey on Gronk. He's got the size. Having said that, their weakness has been in the middle of the field at all levels. I expect solid usage of the backs in the passing game, Amendola, and Gronk.
Yeah, this was noticeable throughout the year. They played a lot of really bad offensives that they absolutely smoked and got big turnover chunk plays. I think they're more comparable to a very good but not generational Houston D last year, who could have easily won in NE if not for getting Brocked, rather than the prime Ravens/Giants defenses.
Oh, I know they'll watch. It's just the chatter I'm talking about. The whole "I don't want to watch the Patriots again" versus "The Jags in the Super Bowl???"
Those are always fun history rides, but given NFL turnover, aren't they otherwise meaningless after a couple of seasons.
The Jags scored 7 on defense and 10 more on very short fields, so that’s a big part of it.
I'm always kind of dubious about historical comps. To state the obvious, there's not a lot of common DNA between the teams on either side. It's true that BB/Tom were part of a lot of those, but most everyone else is different, and Jax has different coaches too.
Given his play this year, leaving Butler on an island does not seem like a wise decision.
Is one of the reasons Pit's TE had a big day because the Jax DBs were aiming to stop the WRs, which is probably somewhat less of a concern with the Patriots, at least with deep passes.
Depends on game situation. It's unlikely Bortles and co can march the field consistently and generate TDs. On the other hand, one bad play on those deep balls and the game can turn in a hurry.
Agreed. Against the Steelers, it was like 95% short throws and then a couple really long bombs. Hardly anything in the 15-30 yard downfield range. Lots of play action, misdirection then short dump offs and easy throws. Given that Bortles' running ability is also an issue, manning up on the outside and playing zone in the middle or just playing straight zones both seem like good options. We'll probably see see a fair amount of base defense. I expect James Harrison to be an important player as he seems like our best run defender at the OLB spot in 4-3 alignments.
I agree with everything here. Third and 6 or less brings Bortles' legs into play. Winning 1st and 2nd downs is always important but especially important against a QB who can run. I'll live with Bortles beating them deep because it's not what he does well. If he completes 1 or 2 deep balls, you tip your hat to him.
I’m seeing 48 on Sunday. This far out, I could easily see the colder air staying longer.
This was basically my point earlier in the thread when I mentioned their trash talk post-game about PIT. Of course they're going to be celebrating but it reveals something about the team. Also after one of the scores yesterday Fournette could be seen taunting the fans in the front row. I don't think it matters much either way but it's fair to say there will be plenty of bulletin board material.
Agreed. At the very least, given that less than 24 hours ago the Jaguars came out and dominated for large stretches of a game where the kickoff temperature was 15 degrees, I don’t think the forecast will determine the outcome.
