The Jacksonville Jaguars will be looking to close the season with a bang against the Indianapolis Colts for Doug Marrone, who may be coaching in his last game with the team. With the Jags being without several key starters and entering the game as underdogs, they will need some significant contributions from some of their non-starters.
Here are two X-factors on the offensive and defensive sides who could aid the Jags to a win Week 17:
DE/LB Josh Allen
Josh Allen has had a phenomenal rookie season and should be heavily considered for Defensive Rookie of the Year. He has the chance to close the season strong and further make his case as Nick Bosa has overshadowed him despite having similar success.
Colts quarterback Jacoby Brissett has the tendency to hold on to the ball too long on occasions, and when he does, the Jags pass-rush have to make him pay. That shouldn’t be and issue for Allen, who registered a sack and two tackles against the Colts in the last meeting between these two teams.
WR Keelan Cole
The Jaguars could be down two receivers against the Colts as Michael Walker (hamstring) was ruled out on the final injury report and Dede Westbrook (neck/shoulder) is listed as questionable. That could leave the Jags with just four active receivers in DJ Chark Jr., Chris Conley, C.J. Board, and the ultimate opportunist, Keelan Cole.
Cole hasn’t necessarily received a lot of opportunities, but when he’s been called upon, he’s stepped up totaling 21 receptions for 294 yards and two touchdowns on the season. With the lack of scorers on the team, Chark not being 100% and the Colts’ pass defense being mediocre at best, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Cole step up like he did against the Oakland Raiders a few weeks ago and lead the team in receptions.