Tag: Press Taylor

Key Matchups: Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Detroit Lions

Key Matchups: Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Detroit Lions

The Jacksonville Jaguars hope to pull off a significant upset as they travel north to take on the Detroit Lions in a matchup with plenty of disadvantages.

Jacksonville enters Week 11 with the projected No. 1 overall selection in the 2025 NFL Draft, according to Tankathon. The Jaguars are 2-8 and coming off a defensive slugfest of a loss against Minnesota without franchise quarterback Trevor Lawrence, who is out again this week with an injury to his non-throwing shoulder.

Head coach Doug Pederson will not have a ton of edges against the Lions. Jaguars Wire looks at a few key matchups that will be critical against the Lions on Sunday afternoon.

Jacksonville WR Brian Thomas Jr. vs. Detroit’s secondary

This is a big moment for the rookie receiver. Brian Thomas Jr. has been one of the better wide receivers in the league this year, an impressive feat for a rookie. Now demanding double-coverage, per Pederson, Thomas will face an uber-talented Lions secondary that will likely continue that trend this weekend.

Thomas’ strength is his vertical game but he is much more than that as a receiver. He has developed into an all-around playmaker who threatens all three levels of the field with his speed, agility, fluidity and route running.

The challenge in Detroit will be taking on cornerbacks Carlton Davis III and Terrion Arnold and safeties Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch.

There is an argument that Branch has had a defensive player-of-the-year-worthy season. And while Detroit’s defense has allowed the fifth-most passing yards per game (244.2) in the NFL this season, it also gives up the third-fewest passing touchdowns per game (0.8).

If Pederson and offensive coordinator Press Taylor manufacture touches for Thomas, the Jaguars could find themselves in scoring positions more often. Thomas is bound for his true workhorse game and this week could be the one.

Jacksonville DE Josh Hines-Allen vs. Detroit OT Taylor Decker

Despite last week’s loss to Minnesota loss, Jacksonville edge rusher Josh Hines-Allen got the better of former teammate Cam Robinson, tallying eight pressures and forcing quarterback Sam Darnold into some rough decisions with the football.

According to Next Gen Stats, Hines-Allen leads the Jaguars in pressures and will line up opposite Lions left tackle Taylor Decker, whose pressure rate ranks in the bottom ten among players at his position at 10.6%.

This is one of the few Achilles heels on Detroit’s offense and there aren’t many of them. Decker is an overall sound tackle but arguably the weak link on the best offensive line in the NFL.

Hines-Allen has been a handful this season and has been continuously worthy of the contract extension that secured him as a true franchise cornerstone on a lowly team. A big day from the former Kentucky standout could keep this game a competitive one through all four quarters.

Jacksonville’s coaching vs. Detroit’s coaching

If you have watched any football between these two teams, it is clear there is a sizeable advantage. If not, this game features a Lions coaching staff that has one of the best offensive minds in the NFL in Ben Johnson, and a defensive coordinator who has his defense playing competitive football in Aaron Glenn.

Not to mention, Detroit is led by Dan Campbell, one of the most respected head coaches in football. It would be fair to expect him to get the most out of his players.

The Jaguars have been under a microscope for most of the season. After entering the season with playoff expectations, those expectations aren’t likely to be met unless they pull off a miraculous run in the final seven games.

If Pederson and the rest of his staff want to tone down the noise about their futures in Jacksonville, they must coach the best games of the season or at any point of their Jaguars tenure.

Last week, there were glimpses of the Jaguars generating more pressure with more blitzes. Defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen must coach a perfect game in this instance and find a way to force Lions quarterback Jared Goff into bad decisions for the second straight week.

Offensively, as stated in the aforementioned key matchup, having the game plan around getting the ball to Thomas is critical. Travis Etienne Jr.’s return to health helps with the loss of Tank Bigsby. Leaning on Thomas and Etienne will ease the pressure on backup quarterback Mac Jones.

It may seem like a tall task against one of the best coaching staffs in the league headed by Campbell, but the Jaguars have pulled off miracles under Pederson before. They could do it again in Detroit.

Jaguars will be without top two wide receivers for matchup vs. Eagles in Week 9

Jaguars will be without Christian Kirk and Brian Thomas Jr. for matchup vs. Eagles in Week 9

Doug Pederson’s Jacksonville Jaguars (2-6) are headed to Philadelphia to face the red-hot Eagles on Sunday afternoon, and they’ll be without their top two wide receivers.

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reports that Jaguars rookie wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. could miss 2-4 weeks with a chest/rib injury suffered Sunday in the 30-27 loss to the Packers. Monday scans will determine the full extent and next steps, though.

The star rookie ranks tied for sixth in the NFL with 573 yards.

The news about Thomas follows news that Christian Kirk also suffered a fractured collarbone in the loss to Green Bay. Kirk, 27, will finish the 2024 season with 27 catches for 379 yards with one touchdown.

Jacksonville will now turn to veteran wideout Gabe Davis (18-217-2) and Parker Washington (6-67-0), while tight end Brenton Strange could see an uptick in targets.

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Key matchups for Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Green Bay Packers

Key matchups for Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Green Bay Packers

There is no rest for the weary as the Jacksonville Jaguars return home from their trip to London to take on Green Bay. Momentum is on their side following one of their best victories in over a year against the New England Patriots, 32-16. 

Jacksonville looks to build upon last week’s impressive offensive showing. Seven games into the regular season, the Jaguars may have found their identity on both sides of the ball and they will be put to the test against a well-rounded Packers team that has won five games while losing only two by a combined seven points

Jaguars Wire takes a closer look at this week’s key matchups for the Jaguars against the Packers in Jacksonville below.

Jaguars defense vs. Packers QB Jordan Love

The Jaguars’ defense is still an issue, especially in pass coverage and their lack of diversity outside of Cover 1 and Cover 2 defenses. However, it seems the unit found its calling card in getting pressure on the quarterback.

Edge rushers Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker have been excellent, with both finding a way to the quarterback consistently. That could pose an issue for the Packers, who rank 26th in time to throw at a 2.68-second average. 

Green Bay quarterback Jordan Love’s passer rating has dipped when pressured at 61.8 compared to his 114.3 passer rating when he isn’t. His EPA total (+38.4) and yard per attempt (9.3) take a nose-dive when blitzed to a -36.4 EPA and just under five yards per attempt, according to Next Gen Stats.

It is paramount that Jacksonville has success attacking the quarterback. The Jaguars’ rush flashed against a horrible Patriots offensive line and could find similar success this week in front of their home crowd.

It helps that Arik Armstead has begun to see more snaps at defensive tackle, which was noticeable a week ago with some of the interior pressure.

Should the Jaguars blitz at their highest rate since their blowout loss on Monday Night Football against Buffalo (31.4%), it will be crucial in a potential victory.

Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence vs. Packers defense

It’s been hard not to notice Trevor Lawrence’s improved play in the last three weeks. His 17-game average from those three games would have the former No. 1 overall selection shattering his single-season passing yards and touchdowns, according to Pro Football Reference.

A reason for his improved play leads back to an increase in play-action used by offensive coordinator Press Taylor and a new-found rushing attack led by second-year running back Tank Bigsby. Lawrence is finding answers against pressure, playing with better anticipation, and showcasing more composure and poise in the pocket. 

Play-action is one of the Achilles heels for the Packers’ defense. Per Next Gen Stats, their 50 percent success rate against this passing concept is the eighth-worst in the NFL.

This is a positive sign for Jacksonville’s passing game although it may run into an issue throwing against two quality safeties in Xavier McKinney and Evan Williams. Each ranks in the top five in coverage success rate among safeties. McKinney has been a ball-hawk with a league-leading five interceptions on the season. 

It won’t be easy attacking this secondary but the Jaguars have shown they are not afraid to test defenses in the vertical thirds and post. 

Packers rushing attack vs. Jaguars run defense

This might be the game’s best matchup. Jacksonville’s run defense has shown improvement and is currently ranked sixth in football with 102.6 rushing yards allowed per game. Now, the Jaguars face one of their toughest challenges in slowing down Packers running back Josh Jacobs, one of the league leaders in rushing yards and yards after contact.

Walker and Hines-Allen will be key in setting the edge and have been sound in this area; the Jaguars have allowed the fifth-fewest yards outside the tackles and rank sixth in EPA allowed per rushing attempt. Armstead will be a factor against Jacobs, who is one of the best at making first and second-level defenders miss in space. 

Tackling in space will be important in that regard and the Jaguars are fifth in the NFL in rushing yards after contact allowed per attempt. They have defenders who can make stops and bring the ball carrier down at first contact. Yet, this will be their toughest test against one of the league’s best rushers.

If Jacksonville were to slow down Jacobs and tackle in space consistently against him, the path to victory would be much easier to navigate. 

Everything Doug Pederson said after Jaguars’ crushing loss vs. Texans

Everything Doug Pederson said after Jaguars’ crushing loss vs. Texans

Jacksonville head coach Doug Pederson said it is “not time to start pointing fingers” following the Jaguars’ 24-20 collapse of a loss to the Texans and 0-4 start to the 2024 campaign.

However, if finger-pointing is bound to occur, Pederson suggested he is willing to take the heat — at least when it comes to Jacksonville’s coaching decisions.

“As coaches, we can’t go out there and make the plays, right?” Pederson said Sunday in response to a question regarding whether he would consider taking over play-calling duties from offensive coordinator Press Taylor.

“It’s a two-way street, so you guys can sit here and point the finger all you want, and that’s fine. Point it right at me. I can take it, okay? I can take it. So, whatever you want to ask me, say, write, go ahead.”

Find everything Pederson said after the loss below.

On the Jaguars’ decision to go for it on 4th and 1:

DOUG PEDERSON: “It’s a moot point. It doesn’t matter now, so I’m not going to talk about it.”

On the absence of linebacker Devin Lloyd:

DOUG PEDERSON: “He just couldn’t make it.”

On Jacksonville’s performance in the second half:

DOUG PEDERSON: “We just made enough plays, got them off the field. Third downs were good for us, and they did a nice job there.”

On the Jaguars’ offensive performance against the Texans:

DOUG PEDERSON: “Could have been better. We missed some key plays in the game that probably could have turned the game differently, and we missed them. We’ve got to take a look at those and see where we can get better.”

On Pederson’s post-game message to the team:

DOUG PEDERSON: “Just tell them we’ve got to keep working, keep fighting. A lot of football ahead of us. It’s not time to start pointing fingers, just got to improve.”

On RB Travis Etienne Jr’s shoulder injury:

DOUG PEDERSON: “Fine.”

On the number of plays QB Trevor Lawrence missed on Sunday:

DOUG PEDERSON: “I’ve got to look at the tape. I couldn’t tell you offhand right now.”

On Jacksonville being so close to winning games:

DOUG PEDERSON: “We’re that close to flipping the switch, making more plays during the games. We’re not making them right now, and that’s what’s holding us back.”

On if Pederson is worried about his status as Jacksonville’s head coach after an 0-4 start: 

DOUG PEDERSON: “My status? I mean, no. That’s kind of a strange question, but okay.”

On if Pederson did not think the Jaguars could score on a 1st and Goal and if he chose to spread the yards out:

DOUG PEDERSON: “Yeah, I mean, you know, credit them. They did a great job keeping us out of the end zone.”

On what Pederson saw in Lawrence’s performance against Houston:

DOUG PEDERSON: “I thought he played well enough. He missed, obviously there were some plays out there we missed that you’d love to have back. Played tough, thought he saw the field extremely well, but there’s some plays that he can make, and we have to make them next time.”

On if Pederson liked how the Jaguars started the game:

DOUG PEDERSON: “Yes. Guys were in a good frame of mind, ready to go.”

On the unsportsmanlike conduct penalty by WR Brian Thomas Jr:

DOUG PEDERSON: “I think it was just the action. It’s been flagged before this season, and you just got to be smarter. You can’t do that, especially after a big play.”

On if the Jaguars’ defense made adjustments at halftime or just played better:

DOUG PEDERSON: “Just played better. Got off the field on third down. It’s a great job.”

On what Pederson saw from LB Ventrell Miller today:

DOUG PEDERSON: “Played good. Obviously watch the film and grade it that way, but I thought there was some really big tackle for losses, him shooting the gap, appeared that he played good.”

On if DE Josh Hines-Allen has started the concussion protocol:

DOUG PEDERSON: “I’ll talk to Ferg (Jaguars vice president of player health and performance Jeff Ferguson), see what he says. But, I think so, yes.”

On if the mantra of “have fun, let loose” was too strong this week and affected the game:

DOUG PEDERSON: “Yes. Guys were loose, guys were ready to play. They were enjoying themselves pre-game, locker room, during the game. The sideline was energetic. They were in a good frame of mind.”

On if Pederson will consider taking over offensive play-calling:

DOUG PEDERSON: “For what? I thought [Jaguars offensive coordinator Press Taylor] called a great game. As coaches, we can’t go out there and make the plays, right? It’s a two-way street, so you guys can sit here and point the finger all you want, and that’s fine. Point it right at me. I can take it, okay? I can take it. So, whatever you want to ask me, say, write, go ahead.”

On if Pederson could provide a voice of confidence by taking over play-calling:

DOUG PEDERSON: “Yeah, sure, okay. I’ll take it into consideration.”

All-22 review: How the Jaguars can beat the Texans

All-22 review: How the Jaguars can beat the Texans

The Jacksonville Jaguars suffered one of their worst losses in recent memory in their 47-10 defeat at Buffalo on Monday night, falling to 0-3 and in a tough spot heading into another tough matchup in Houston.

The Jaguars are a mess, with injuries continuing to pile up and the coaching staff still looking for the team’s identity three weeks into the season. It has been far from the ideal start for this franchise in a season where, per owner Shad Khan, “winning now is the expectation.”

Sunday presents a Houston opponent with a young, talented roster led by quarterback C.J. Stroud. The Texans will not present an easy task but there is a way the Jaguars can either keep the game close or win outright.

Jaguars Wire reviewed the All-22 to present a couple of ways for Jacksonville to secure a victory in Houston.

Continue making WR Christian Kirk the passing offense’s focal point

Kirk started with a negative competition percentage over expected (CPOE) over the first two weeks of the season before his breakout game in Buffalo. Despite the 37-point loss, the team’s No. 1 receiver was finally utilized as one. 

Kirk finished the night with eight catches on 10 targets for 79 yards, +12.1% CPOE, +3.7 receiving expected points added (EPA) and an average target separation of 3.2 yards, according to Next Gen Stats.

Kirk is a quality route runner. He understands how to manipulate defenders with subtle movements and head fakes while attacking their leverage. His ability to create separation is why his average target separation is usually high.

The third-year Jaguar is specifically a slot receiver but that is not a flaw in his skill set. Kirk can terrorize second-level defenders with his short-area quickness and run-after-catch toolbox. This is why he was effective against Buffalo and should be a go-to target in Jacksonville’s offense going forward.

Kirk’s lack of usage early in the season likely hurt the Jaguars. The offense can be effective with Kirk as its top playmaker and target holder.

However, there is one thing that the Jaguars’ offense must do to stand a chance against the Texans…

Commit to the run and open up play-action

One of the most frustrating things about Jacksoville’s offense is its lack of identity. This is solely on the coaching staff for not putting its players in areas to succeed.

The Jaguars must start committing to the run as they have proven successful when they do.

Based on Next Gen Stats, the Jaguars are No. 7 in the NFL in rushing yards over expected, No. 3 in RYOE per attempt and No. 1 in rushing yards after contact per attempt. Running backs Travis Etienne Jr. and a healthy Tank Bigsby are more than capable of sharing the load and the former can handle 20 or more touches per game if needed.

Jacksonville can run the football, and committing to it would open up the play-action passing game and generate more explosive plays.

Play-action is used to draw the linebackers to the line of scrimmage to mimic the run while leaving chunks of the field with open green grass, especially the high-hole area of the field. Teams can use vertical plane routes, crossers and underneath drags to create explosive plays. Kirk and rookie receiver Brian Thomas Jr. are prime targets for these concepts.

At the same time, they can also be creative. Teams can run slip screens with the running back out of the backfield (a failed attempt by the Jaguars can be seen in the first of four clips above), run vertical passing concepts and so much more. 

Sometimes, offenses will run play-action concepts out of 11 personnel, 12 personnel, 13 personnel and 22 personnel. Jacksonville has the talent required to operate from each of these looks, specifically 13 personnel when Evan Engram is available as one of three tight ends.

Jaguars fans may already see that an offensive identity is possible to achieve. It helps when the team has the second-deepest route depth of any team in the league through three weeks, showing the makings of an explosive vertical offense marinated off play-action.

It begs the question, why are head coach Doug Pederson and offensive coordinator Press Taylor not leaning into it?

Perhaps they will this week as play-action is the way to beat Houston. Opposing quarterbacks are 17-of-30 for 280 yards and three touchdowns with no interceptions on play-action throws against the Texans, according to Pro Football Focus.

Minnesota proved the approach successful by stressing Houston defensively in their win last weekend, with quarterback Sam Darnold going 8-of-12 for 109 yards and one touchdown on play-action. Trevor Lawrence could do the same thing.  

The Jaguars have the toolbox to fix their issues in the short term and beat the Texans with a good old-fashioned run-heavy, play-action attack. It is up to the head coach and offensive coordinator to pick the right tools.

Key matchups for Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Buffalo Bills

Key matchups for Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Buffalo Bills

After starting the regular season 0-2, the Jacksonville Jaguars look to get in the win column for the first time this year as they travel to Buffalo for Monday Night Football in Week 3. 

This week the Jaguars are still searching for their identity on offense and are currently facing scrutiny for their inconsistent offensive execution and play-calling. This could prove detrimental in trying to keep up with the Bills, which feature one of the powerhouse offenses in the AFC, led by quarterback Josh Allen.

Week 3 of the regular season is now a must-win for the Jaguars and they must prove they can contend with top teams in the conference like the Bills. Finding their offensive identity and consistency will be key, and if they fail to do so at this crucial point of the season on the national stage, it will become fair to wonder if their issues can be fixed this year.

With that in mind, Jaguars Wire is here to identify three key matchups for Jacksonville’s Week 3 road matchup against Buffalo, which the Jaguars must win to avoid digging themselves into a deeper hole. 

Jaguars WR Christian Kirk vs. Bills’ linebackers and slot cornerback

Through two games, the Jaguars starting slot receiver has just two catches on seven targets for 29 yards. While it is early in the season, Kirk’s lack of significant targets has been concerning, especially amid Jacksonville’s offensive struggles. 

Yet, Monday night presents an opportunity for Jaguars offensive coordinator Press Taylor and head coach Doug Pederson to get Kirk heavily involved in the offensive game plan.

The Bills’ man coverage rate this season is just 20 percent as they remain a zone-heavy, two-high safety team that will leave plenty of green grass. That creates an advantage for Kirk, who has a knack for identifying the soft spots in zone coverage. 

A top target in the middle of the field for quarterback Trevor Lawrence over the last two seasons, Kirk led the Jaguars with 1,108 receiving yards in 2022 and was on track for over 1,000 in 2023 before a Week 13, year-ending injury. He has proven productive and effective with an average target separation of over three yards in the last two seasons.

With linebacker Terrel Bernard and nickel corner Taron Johnson out for Monday night’s bout, Buffalo could be thin at both spots, meaning Jacksonville could open up its passing game with Kirk as the focal point.

Baylon Spector and Cam Lewis are expected to start in place of Bernard and Johnson, respectively.

Jacksonville’s defense vs. Buffalo’s offense

While the Jaguars’ offense has sputtered to this point, Jacksonville’s defense is respectable, and daring in coverage.

According to Next Gen Stats, Jacksonville aligned its outside corners in press coverage on 36 percent of snaps. That is the fourth-highest mark in the league, showing that defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen trusts his corners on an island.

The unit deploys Cover 1 coverage 53% of the time, per Hayden Winks, despite the absence of cornerback Tyson Campbell. Nielsen utilizes broad man coverage on 52.6 percent of opposing dropbacks, the highest rate in the NFL.

Thus far, passers are averaging 6.5 passing yards per play against the Jaguars, ranking No. 21 in the league. Quarterbacks are struggling to score through the air against Jacksonville, though, as Miami’s Tua Tagovailoa and Cleveland’s Deshaun Watson combined to throw for one touchdown in Weeks 1-2.

Jacksonville’s man coverage will be tested against arguably the best NFL signal-caller not named Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and his offensive coordinator Joe Brady on Monday night.

Next Gen Stats show Allen producing the lowest air yards per attempt of his career at 7.4 this season, despite his career-high 73.8% completion percentage through the first two games. This shows that Brady is allowing Allen to distribute the ball around the offense and trusting receivers to compete after the catch.

Considering how difficult Allen is to defend as both a passer and runner, there’s a possibility Nielsen could veer off his man coverage path and play more zone this week. Perhaps it is unlikely given his tendencies as a play-caller, but this is something to keep in mind ahead of Monday night.

Not only will Allen present a tough task, but so will tight end Dalton Kincaid, running back James Cook and receiver Khalil Shakir. The latter owns the highest catch rate of all wide receivers in the league at 88.7 percent.

If Jacksonville can force Allen into bad decisions against its man-heavy defense and limit his rushing opportunities, the Jaguars’ struggling offense should obtain more opportunities to find a rhythm compared to previous games.

Jacksonville’s offense vs. Buffalo’s defense 

While Kirk could be the focus of the Jaguars’ passing offense against the Bills, the unit must perform better situationally across the board in its attempt to establish an identity of any sort.

It starts up front. Lawrence’s protection must improve Monday night against a strong Bills pass rush featuring Von Miller and Gregory Rousseau.

Lawrence has been sacked on a league-high 11.5 percent of dropbacks this season, according to Next Gen Stats. Perhaps Lawrence is responsible for some of the pressure he has faced, but Pro Football Focus dings Jacksonville’s offensive line for allowing six of the seven sacks he has taken.

Next Gen Stats also notes the Jaguars own the third-worst time to pressure in the NFL in 2024, 2.57 seconds.

While explosive plays have occasionally popped up from the likes of running back Travis Etienne Jr. and rookie wideout Brian Thomas Jr, the Jaguars must do a better job of winning on early downs to make third downs more manageable and become less reliant on chunk gains.

Jacksonville has converted just over 26% of its third-down attempts, the fifth-worst mark in the league ahead of Denver, Atlanta, Cleveland and Carolina. The offense will sail much smoother if it can improve drastically in this area.

The Jaguars will be without versatile tight end Evan Engram again this week after suffering a hamstring injury during pregame warmups last Sunday. His absence is why Kirk will be the X-factor for the Jaguars’ passing offense, paired with the Bills’ top linebacker and nickel cornerback out. 

Pederson cannot afford his team to fall to a 0-3 record. His defense is capable of helping win games, but it is Jacksonville’s offense, Pederson’s bread and butter, costing the Jaguars the most.

That has to change on Monday night.

X-Factor: Can Jaguars figure out third down vs. Bills?

X-Factor: Can Jaguars figure out third down vs. Bills?

Jacksonville hopes to avoid a 0-3 start in head coach Doug Pederson’s third season with the club by pulling off a Monday Night Football victory over Buffalo. 

Sitting at 18-18 through 36 games with the Jaguars and 1-7 in the team’s last eight games, Pederson’s seat is arguably beginning to warm up, especially as Jacksonville looks lost offensively to start the year. 

The Jaguars want to avoid a shootout with the Bills if the first two weeks of the season are any indication, as they have scored a combined 30 points in two games. Meanwhile, Buffalo posted over 30 points in both of its wins, beating Arizona 34-28 and Miami 31-10.  

Jacksonville’s offense will be the Jaguars’ X-Factor come Monday, as the unit needs an explosive performance to overcome the 2-0 Buffalo. 

Although not as dangerous as in past years, the Bills’ offense poses a significant threat to the Jaguars, especially if Jacksonville’s inability to sustain drives and score persists, leaving the team unable to keep up. 

Jacksonville offensive coordinator Press Taylor believes converting third downs can help the Jaguars rediscover offensive success against Buffalo. 

“I think a big thing for us is just third-down conversions. We haven’t had enough snaps because we’re not converting enough on third down to begin with,” Taylor said Friday. 

“We’ve had some manageable third-down situations that we haven’t executed well, but I think we’ve had about 55 and 54 plays in two games. That’s not enough.”

Jacksonville converted five third downs over 19 attempts in its first two games, several of which contributed to red zone snags, where the Jaguars settled for field goals instead of securing touchdowns.

As he works to reignite the Jaguars’ stagnant offense, Taylor looked back at a Jacksonville 25-20 win over Buffalo in 2023 as a place to start. 

“Even watching last year, we played Buffalo, we were up in the high-80s [number of plays], I believe it was, in just that game alone,” Taylor said. “So, we need to be in there, and then that gives you more opportunities to spread the ball around, more touches, get a little bit more rhythm across the board.”

In that five-point win, Jacksonville quarterback Trevor Lawrence posted 315 passing yards, completing 25 of his 37 attempts. The running game clicked too, as Jaguars’ running back Travis Etienne Jr. rushed for 136 yards on 26 attempts, scoring on the ground twice. 

“Everybody as players gets a little bit more rhythm when you get more calls in and things like that,” Taylor explained. “So, third down conversions are a big part of trying to be able to continue to develop that consistency and that consistent momentum.”

Yet, it all starts up front for Jacksonville. If the pocket collapses and the run game can not get going, it could be a long night for the Jaguars in Orchard Park, New York. 

Lawrence has often been under duress behind an offensive line that has given up six of the seven combined sacks he took against the Dolphins and Browns, per Pro Football Focus. 

Trouble could ensue Monday, taking on Bills linebackers Von Miller and Greg Rousseau, who have combined for five sacks through Buffalo’s first two games, with Miller recording one each week.

“If you’re going to start listing off the best pass rushers in the league, it’s not going to take you long to get to Von Miller still,” Taylor said.

“He has that respect from us, and really across the league, as you talk to a lot of people that have played him and what they know he’s still capable of providing out there.”

Jacksonville needs a clean offensive performance to secure its first win of the season and avoid falling to 0-3 with the Houston Texans waiting. Executing on third down will be critical for the Jaguars to accomplish those objectives. 

Press Taylor: Jaguars rookie Brian Thomas Jr. has ‘proven he belongs’

Press Taylor: Jaguars rookie Brian Thomas Jr. has ‘proven he belongs’

Jacksonville’s offense has not met its expectations to begin the 2024 season. However, the unit has one feature it can write home about through two games: The immediate ascension of rookie wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr.

Thomas ranks No. 3 among all rookie offensive skill players this year with 141 receiving yards — No. 2 when weighed against wide receivers only — and his 23.5 yards per reception rank No. 4, per Stathead.

His 66-yard catch and run against Cleveland in Week 2 is the longest play from scrimmage by a rookie yet this season.

Jaguars offensive coordinator Press Taylor on Friday said Thomas’ immediate production to begin his NFL career marks proof that he belongs in the league.

“I think he’s proven he belongs. He’s proven that the moment’s not too big for him,” Taylor described Thomas’ performance thus far. “He’s done well against good players. That’s what we anticipated from him, but it is exciting to see.”

Per Pro Football Focus, Thomas caught two passes against former All-Pro safety Jordan Poyer and one apiece versus cornerback Kendall Fuller and linebacker David Long Jr. when Jacksonville faced Miami in Week 1, combining for 47 yards and the first touchdown of his career, scored with Poyer in primary coverage.

Last week versus Cleveland, Thomas logged his 66-yard grab against former first-round NFL draft pick Greg Newsome II and a 28-yard catch while matched up with 2023 Pro Bowl linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah.

Thomas paces Jacksonville receivers in yards and touchdowns this season, having caught quarterback Trevor Lawrence’s lone scoring throw, and is tied with Gabe Davis in receptions, over eight targets compared to Davis’ 10.

But while Taylor is impressed by what Thomas has done for the Jaguars’ offense through two games, he suggested the rookie still has development to do in order to become a more consistent player.

“Then again, like I’ve always said, I think there’s so much ahead for him,” Taylor expressed.

“Just how he’s going to grow each and every week. We’ve played two games. We’ve played 100 snaps. So, I think his future’s bright, and I think he’s going to grow right along with the offense, just being consistent down-in and down-out.”

Another big, perhaps more involved showing from Thomas could generate the boost the Jaguars (0-2) need for a win when they take on the Bills (2-0) in Buffalo for Monday Night Football in Week 3.

All-22 review: Jaguars vs. Dolphins

All-22 review: Jaguars vs. Dolphins

The Jacksonville Jaguars are off to a rough start to their 2024 campaign following an embarrassing defeat on the road against the Miami Dolphins, 20-17.

At one point, the Jaguars held leads of 14-0 in the first half and 17-7 in the second, leaving many to wonder what happened after such a great start to the game.

Jaguars Wire broke down the matchup’s All-22 film to digest Sunday’s events with better context, sharing its biggest takeaways below.

Defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen impressed in his first game with the Jaguars

Jacksonville Jaguars defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen talks to the media ahead of the second day of an NFL football training camp practice session Thursday, July 25, 2024 at EverBank Stadium’s Miller Electric Center in Jacksonville, Fla.

One of the key matchups Sunday was Ryan Nielsen’s Jacksonville defense versus arguably the most explosive offense in football. One key concern was capping the big plays Miami has been known to produce throughout the last two seasons. 

Despite Dolphins receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle producing crucial explosive plays late in the contest, Nielsen otherwise called in a great game. Jaguars defenders on all three levels of the field flew around the field but rarely appeared out of place outside of a couple of occasions.

One of the most impressive things from this unit is that it rarely got caught in Miami’s barrage of shifts and motions, staying disciplined and on task while forcing quarterback Tua Tagovailoa off his spot and forcing throws.

Jacksonville’s linebackers were stout in their run fits. According to Next Gen Stats, the run defense held Miami to just 69 yards of offense on 23 touches and negative 44 rushing yards over expected, the lowest since Week 9 of 2021. 

Linebacker Foyesade Oluokun played terrific in coverage and against the run. He made an excellent play in the second quarter on fourth & short by shadowing double slants on the front side and nearly secured the interception.

Other defensive players such as safety Darnell Savage Jr. and defensive lineman Arik Armstead had quality performances.

Before leaving the game with an injury, star cornerback Tyson Campbell played with sound technique in press-man and zone shells. Rookie Jarrian Jones had a couple of one-on-ones with Hill and held his own.

Edge rusher Travon Walker’s season is off to a great start. He piled up two sacks in Week 1 with elite explosiveness, power at the point of contact, an impressive bull rush, and the rare athleticism he has been known for since he was drafted No. 1 overall in 2022.

Jacksonville’s first-half offense displayed a glimpse into the future…

MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA – SEPTEMBER 08: Trevor Lawrence #16 and Brian Thomas Jr. #7 of the Jacksonville Jaguars celebrate after a touchdown during the second quarter against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium on September 08, 2024 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images)

Sunday offered a peak into what the 2024 Jaguars offense could become under whoever is calling plays in Jacksonville, head coach Doug Pederson or offensive coordinator Press Taylor. There were more under-center, vertical passing concepts that opened up the offense to an extent. The operation seemed steadier and smoother.

Franchise signal-caller Trevor Lawrence had a quality first half, making a terrific throw seemingly every series. He had a couple of middle-of-the-field darts for big completions, including the beautiful bucket drop to rookie wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. to go up 14-0 in the second quarter.

Lawrence did a great job using his eyes to manipulate second and third-level defenders while maintaining his progressions.

The Jaguars have the potential to field a consistently explosive offense. Second-string running back Tank Bigsby broke off a couple of nice runs. Thomas also looks as advertised as a deep threat, showing vertical separation almost consistently with subtle movements to create space and opportunities for Lawrence to make accurate, on-time throws.

Jacksonville could have continued to mash its foot on the gas and attack Miami’s secondary with vertical play-action attacks from under-center and route concepts to put its players in positions to succeed. As the score later showed, it didn’t.

…but the second-half offense offered a not-so-good blast from the past

Sep 8, 2024; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson looks on from the sideline against the Miami Dolphins during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

As soon as the Jaguars’ offense took the field in the second half, there was an easy tell to the momentum swing that began to occur. What went from an explosive and dynamic first 30 minutes to a stale and conservative final 30. 

Pederson or Taylor let their foot off the gas almost entirely, especially after running back Travis Etienne Jr. fumbled in the red zone. 

The offense reversed back to what led to its demise late in the 2023 season. There were very few concepts that allowed Lawrence to attack the middle of the field and several play-action rollouts that only allowed for the short area of the gridiron to be attacked. 

Thomas received no targets in the second half, a head-scratching reality considering his earlier production paired with Jacksonville’s late offensive stalls. The Jaguars offensive line largely held its own throughout the game, allowing Lawrence to navigate the pocket and reset his base when needed.

The lack of aggression from the offense was staggering and it allowed Miami to take the field for just enough plays, including the 80-yard touchdown by Hill, to stage a successful comeback.

There was also too much faith placed in the Jaguars’ rushing offense and defensive performance to secure the victory. This kind of approach has far too often put coaches at a disadvantage against explosive teams such as the Dolphins or Kansas City Chiefs.

Jacksonville will host the Cleveland Browns in the Jaguars‘ home opener this weekend. They have the offense and personnel to be an aggressive, explosive offense. If the Jaguars learn to keep mashing the gas pedal when up 10 or more points, this could be a potent team throughout the season. 

3 bold predictions for the Jacksonville Jaguars’ 2024 season

3 bold predictions for the 2024 Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jacksonville Jaguars kick off their regular season Sunday with a road trip to Hard Rock Stadium to take on the Miami Dolphins. 

This is the time of the season when fans’ optimism and hope are at an all-time high before the reality of meaningful wins and losses. With postseason aspirations once again, Jacksonville has the talent to get there.

Accordingly, Jaguars Wire has prepared a few hot takes for Jacksonville entering the 2024 campaign, three bold predictions for the Jaguars after their active offseason building a hopeful Super Bowl contender.

Trevor Lawrence posts career-high numbers under Press Taylor

Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) warms up before a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Fla. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]
Entering the NFL, Lawrence was considered one of the best quarterback prospects in the modern era with career expectations through the roof.

He is off to a good statistical start to his now-four-year career, averaging a 68.8 percent completion percentage and hovering around seven yards per passing attempt.

The former No. 1 overall selection started his first eight games of the 2023 season with a nine-to-four touchdown-to-interception ratio, completing just over 68 percent of his throws. Jacksonville went 6-2 in that stretch.

But as Jaguars fans are well aware, the season went downhill after the halfway point along with Lawrence’s play, though he battled through nagging injuries late in the campaign.

The biggest thing the Jaguars should learn from last season is to stay hot when they get hot, and the same can be said for their signal-caller. Likely operating under Press Taylor in his second season as Jacksonville’s full-time play-caller, Lawrence should have enough comfort within the offense to do so.

The former Clemson standout will post career-high numbers in passing yards, touchdowns, yards per attempt, and a career-low in interceptions. I envision Lawrence producing a stat line of 4,350 yards, 32 touchdowns, eight interceptions and 8.1 yards-per-pass attempt.

He will benefit from Jacksonville’s new-look wide receiver room (more on this in our next prediction) and a healthier offensive line to put Jacksonville’s offense back on the track it followed to the 2022-23 AFC Divisional Round of the playoffs.

Brian Thomas Jr. leads all rookies (and the team) in receiving yards

Aug. 7, 2024: Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. on Day 12 of Jacksonville’s 2024 training camp. [Credit: Zach Goodall – Jaguars Wire/USA TODAY SMG]
General manager Trent Baalke prioritized surrounding Lawrence with talent this offseason by adding wide receiver Gabe Davis, center Mitch Morse, and rookie Brian Thomas Jr.

Jacksonville’s first-round selection is a gifted athlete who ran a 4.33-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine. He displayed that explosiveness consistently during his final season at LSU, averaging over 17 yards per catch and posting 17 touchdowns.

Thomas wins with instant acceleration that allows him to stack defensive backs on vertical routes while having the short-area quickness to gain yards after the catch with creativity.

He is a raw playmaker who continues to develop his route tree and technique as a route-runner, but showed progress in this department during training camp and the preseason. He averaged 31 yards per reception over three exhibition catches this August. 

Jacksonville surrounded Thomas with several capable playmakers as he adjusts to the speed of the NFL, taking the stress of being the Jaguars’ No. 1 receiving threat off his plate as a rookie.

I see him benefitting from that lack of pressure and Lawrence’s bounce-back year, and believe he could lead all rookie wide receivers in yards.

Arizona’s Marvin Harrison Jr., New York’s Malik Nabers, Kansas City’s Xavier Worthy and Chicago’s Rome Odunze are all rookie playmakers who could be productive from the jump.

The same can be said for Thomas, whose athletic skill set will open up the Jaguars’ passing game beyond his own production.

By the end of the season, the former All-SEC standout will be the top target for Lawrence, finishing the season with over 1,200 yards and eight touchdowns. 

Jacksonville wins the AFC South, making a surprise deep playoff run

Aug 10, 2024; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson and offensive coordinator Press Taylor look on before a preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

This seems like a tall task in itself. The Jaguars play in a division that includes three other teams with playoff aspirations. They also play in the AFC, which until further notice, is run by Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs.

Two years ago, Lawrence led this team from worst to first with a home playoff win and came close to unseating the Chiefs in the divisional round.

Inconsistencies were cause for concern last season, but the ultimate reason Jacksonville fell apart was Lawrence’s multiple injuries, paired with top receivers Christian Kirk and Zay Jones (now with Arizona) dealing with their own hurts.

That changes this year with injuries behind the Jaguars, a rejuvenated offense under Taylor and a top-10 defensive unit coached by new defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen putting the squad back in contention. 

With big seasons from Lawrence and Thomas, Jacksonville finishes 4-2 in the division with losses to Houston and Indianapolis while compiling an 11-6 record to snag the AFC South division crown and the No. 3 seed in the AFC.

Lawrence, who I believe finishes the season with MVP votes, will lead his team to the AFC championship. But ultimately, the Jaguars will fall just short of their first Super Bowl appearance to Mahomes in Arrowhead Stadium.