On Sunday, two underperforming teams in the AFC will clash in Jacksonville as the New York Jets face off against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Both teams hold a disappointing record of 3-10, with the Jets entering this matchup on a five-game losing streak. The Jaguars will be without their starting quarterback, Trevor Lawrence, for the remainder of the season due to injury. Kickoff is set for 1:00 PM EST.
Read on for predictions regarding the Jets vs. Jaguars game.
Jets Struggling to Find Their Footing
The New York Jets arrive in Jacksonville with their spirits dampened by a five-game losing streak, and the specter of a lost season looms large. Last Sunday, the Jets had a chance to clinch a victory against the Miami Dolphins, but they squandered an opportunity with a game-tying field goal in regulation and then allowed the Dolphins to score a game-ending touchdown in overtime, resulting in a 32-26 loss. With a record of 3-10, the Jets are now eyeing a top-five draft pick instead of a playoff berth, marking their 14th consecutive season without postseason play.
Quarterback Aaron Rodgers expressed frustration, saying, “We’ve lost in a lot of different ways. Everyone has a role in it, but we had chances on offense. Regardless of the defensive issues, we need to put up 30 points. We failed to do that.”
Despite the loss, Rodgers had a commendable performance, completing 27 of 39 passes for 339 yards—his first 300-yard game in three years. His former teammate, Davante Adams, was a standout, catching nine passes for 109 yards and a touchdown. The Jets totaled 402 yards in offense but struggled defensively, allowing 375 yards to their opponents.
The Jets’ season has been disappointing following the pre-season excitement surrounding Rodgers’ debut year as their leader. They have experienced significant changes, including firing their head coach and altering their offensive strategy. Currently, they rank 25th in scoring offense and 27th in total offense, with struggles in both the running and passing games. On defense, they are stronger, ranking 4th overall, but inconsistencies persist. They sit 19th in scoring defense and 21st in turnover margin.
Key Injuries: Defensive end Hassan Reddick, running backs Kene Nwangwu and Breece Hall, and guard Alijah Vera-Tucker are all listed as questionable.
Jaguars Stumble Towards the Season’s End
The Jacksonville Jaguars invested heavily in their roster during the last offseason in hopes of making a playoff run, but their efforts have not paid off. With a 3-10 record, the Jaguars were the last team to secure a victory this season, managing to defeat the Tennessee Titans 10-6 last Sunday. They entered the fourth quarter trailing 6-0 but rallied to score the game’s final ten points, providing a small consolation in an otherwise disappointing season.
Coach Doug Pederson reflected on the win, stating, “It’s a relief, right? The excitement and joy of the hard work finally pays off.”
This week, the Jaguars will be led by backup quarterback Mac Jones after Trevor Lawrence’s injury. Jones passed for 220 yards, contributing to the Jaguars’ two scores despite throwing two interceptions. Rookie Brian Thomas Jr. had a breakout performance, recording eight receptions for 86 yards, while running back Tank Bigsby scored the team’s only touchdown. The Jaguars managed 291 total yards of offense and their defense held the Titans to 272 yards, showcasing some resilience.
As they look to the future, the Jaguars may undergo significant changes, including potential coaching staff adjustments. With four losses in their last five games, they find themselves in contention for a top draft pick. Currently, they rank 26th in scoring offense and 28th in total offense, with challenges in both their ground and aerial attacks. Defensively, their statistics are even more concerning, as they sit at the bottom of the league in total defense and scoring defense. The Jaguars are also struggling with turnover margin, placing them 30th in the NFL.
Key Injuries: Quarterback Trevor Lawrence is out. Tight ends Josiah Deguara and Evan Engram, along with guards Brandon Scherff and Ezra Cleveland, are listed as questionable.
Best Bets for New York Jets vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
