The Jacksonville Jaguars are closing in on their last two home games, which means they are running out of time to give the fans another win at TIAA Bank Field. One of their two remaining opportunities will occur Week 14 against the Los Angeles Chargers, who are 7-3 against the Jags.
When both teams take the field, Los Angeles will be dealing with a different type of signal-caller than they’ve seen in the past as rookie Gardner Minshew II will be behind center. Do we think that will be enough here at Jags Wire, though?
Here are our predictions on the week for Sunday’s game:
James Johnson (@Sportsgrind_Don): Chargers 23, Jags 21
I don’t think many fans would complain about Doug Marrone seeing if Gardner Minshew II can bring some life to the offense after witnessing Nick Foles’ lack of movement skills in the pocket. That said, I think the rookie will be more effective moving the chains, but his defense isn’t going to do him any favors on the opposite end.
Jacob DeLawrence (@_Jdela): Chargers 28, Jaguars 13
This is a matchup between two teams who have managed to have their names turned into verbs. Much like the Chargers are known for losing in ways that only the Chargers can, the Jags are known for Jagging. This matchup will likely end with the Jags giving up the lead, which means another crushing defeat. Despite “Minshew Mania” returning, the Chargers overcome the time difference and defeat the Jags Sunday.
Daniel Griffis (@GriffisNFL): Chargers 26, Jaguars 19
“Minshew Mania” is back! Is it enough to turn the tides against a confusing Los Angeles Chargers team, though? I’m not sure. I think the Jaguars are in desperate need of some energy and Minshew will do his best to revitalize this team, but I’m not 100% sure it will be enough.
Robert Ricks (@rrickswriting): Jaguars 22, Chargers 16
The Jaguars’ offense will be more than likely revitalized with the recent quarterback change from Nick Foles to Gardner Minshew II. I believe the defense will do enough to slow down Philip Rivers, who’s having a lackluster midseason stretch. We may see a good bit of Chargers running back Austin Ekeler to attack the Jags’ weakness at linebacker. However, the Jaguars should win this game to save face from a demoralizing season.
Will Frost (@willfrost_): Jaguars 24, Chargers 18
“Minshew Mania” is back full-time this week as the Jaguars benched Nick Foles last Sunday.
The Chargers are trying desperately to keep their season alive, expect a scrappy game with offensive mistakes from both sides of the ball. Hopefully, some mustache magic will stop the current losing streak.