Preseason Week 3: 4 Match ups to Watch vs the Bengals

Here's our 4 key match ups to keep an eye on when the Jaguars take on the Bengals on Sunday Night Football.
By Jordan de Lugo - @jordandelugo

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1. Kelvin Beachum vs Bengals Pass Rush

Kelvin Beachum was one of the best pass blocking left tackles in the NFL prior to tearing his ACL. That was the beginning of the 2015 season, now Beachum is coming off knee surgery and will be making his first start for the Jaguars against the Bengals. His first test will be a tough one. The Bengals defensive line and defense as a whole is one of the most talented in the NFL. Individually he'll be lined up against the likes of Michael Johnson and Carlos Dunlap, two very good defensive ends. If Beachum is able to stay clean and keep Bortles off the ground for at least a quarter or two, then it will be a great sign for this unproven Jaguars offensive line. 

2. Jalen Ramsey vs A.J. Green

In Jalen's first matchup of 2015 he faced off against Mike Evans, now in his second he faces off against one of the most consistent and dangerous receiver in football A.J. Green. Green will likely be targeted early and often against the young Ramsey. Against Evans Ramsey was up to the task covering him down field when the time called and making plays in the run game as well. While Evans is an extremely talented receiver, he lacks the polish of the 5 time Pro Bowl receiver A.J. Green. If Ramsey shuts Green down as he did Evans then he will be off the an amazing start to his rookie year. 

3. Dante Fowler vs Eric Winston

This is one of the most interesting and important match ups of the game. Fowler has struggled in his first two games, not really generating any pressure. This week he will be matched up with a 10 year vet Eric Winston. Winston hasn't been a starter since he joined the Bengals two years ago, but he's ready to take advantage of his opportunity. Fowler will no doubt also see this as an opportunity. While Fowler has struggled in the first two preseason games, he will look to take advantage of this matchup with the third string right tackle. It won't be easy for Fowler as Winston is battle tested and ready, but Fowler needs to show something a game and this could be his week. 

4. The Jaguars Rushing Attack vs the Bengals Run Defense

The Bengals have one of the best front sevens in the NFL. They are consistently among the top 10 defenses against the run and will be a litmus test for the Jaguars explosive backfield. So far this preseason Ivory and Yeldon have combined for 92 yards on only 18 carries, averaging 5.1 yards per carry. Both have found the end zone as well, Ivory on a short run at the goal line and Yeldon on an out route where he sped past the defenders. If they, along with the offensive line, can continue this performance then we could be seeing the beginnings of a dominant Jaguars rushing attack in 2016. 

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