5 Things: Texans @ Jaguars Preview

The Jaguars are coming off a season in which they lost to the Texans twice. Losing to a division foe twice in one season is simply unacceptable — but this is a new season, and a much different Texans team.

By
​Jordan de Lugo

PRESENTED BY:

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Can the Jaguars slow down Arian Foster? Prior to last weeks tilt with Buccaneers the Jaguars’ run defense had been stout. The Jags were giving up less the 85 yards a game on the ground prior to their trip to Tampa, but the run defense did not show up last week as they gave up 183 yards on the ground, over twice their season average. The Jags’ run defense will need to have a bounce back week as they are up against a premier running back in Arian Foster. The defensive line will be helped greatly by the return of their best player, Sen’Derrick Marks. In addition to getting Marks back, it looks like Paul Posluszny will also return for the Jags’ defense. If the Jags can keep Foster in check they will have a good shot at winning this matchup.

The Julius Thomas Effect — Julius Thomas may not have had a huge statistical impact last week, but the Tampa defense knew they had to account for the sure handed receiving threat at all times. The Jaguars hope is that Thomas will break out this week in the receiving game, but even if he doesn't, he will still open up the field for Allen Robinson and Allen Hurns.

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Can the Jags’ offensive line do anything in the run game? The O-Line has been much improved in pass protection, but run blocking has not been their forte this year. Jaguars’ running backs are not getting much room to work with and are being hit in the backfield far too often. The Jaguars will try to take advantage of a Texans’ defense that is giving up 114.2 yards per game on the ground. It is unclear whether or not T.J. Yeldon will play in this one, but the Jaguars will have Denard Robinson, who is more than capable of carrying the load for a game or two. The Jags’ offensive line must pave the way for the running backs in what could be a low scoring game. 

The Jaguars must eliminate mistakes and be accountable. They have found many different ways to lose games this season. When they correct one mistake, another one pops up. The Individuals on this team must take personal accountability in order for the Jags to win this game, and not make mistakes that cost the game. If the Jaguars can stay away from false starts, offsides, and personal fouls, that would be a huge step in the right direction for this team that lost their only division game this season due to penalties. 
The last and most important thing to watch for in this game is the steady improvement of second year quarterback, Blake Bortles. In his two starts against the Texans last year he wasn't able to do much of anything, but he has had a strong sophomore season. Last week he threw for over 300 yards and four touchdowns. If he and his receivers can stay hot, then the Jags will likely win this game.