Preview : Preseason week 2 Jags @ Giants

In preseason week 2, The Jaguars travel to New Jersey to play the Giants. Here's what to watch for.

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By 
Scott Klein 
& Jordan de Lugo

          While watching preseason football it is important to remember that the final score is not the most significant part of the game. Instead, pay attention to specific players and schemes to see what’s working and what aspects of the team need some work. Having said that, we have provided some players and matchup’s to keep an eye on during the Jags v. Giants game.

          The Line of Scrimmage: The Giants offensive line play was atrocious in their first preseason game against the Bengals. Their starting left tackle, Will Beatty was injured in the offseason, which forced rookie, Ereck Flowers, into the starting lineup. Ereck Flowers and the rest of the offensive line might be the single greatest weak spot on the Giants. In their first preseason matchup they struggled, even when their starters were going against the Bengals second string. The Giants poor offensive line play should have the Jaguar’s defense licking their chops. Look for the Jaguars to get after Eli Manning early and often. On the flip side of the ball, the Jaguars offensive line has 2 to 3 new starters and is trying to develop continuity on the fly. Despite starting left tackle Luke Joeckel’s apparent lack of success in the Jaguars first preseason match up against the Steelers, he got better through out the game. Hopefully for the Jags, Joeckel can continue to improve in this game. At left guard the battle is heating up in between the disappointing, Zane Beadles, and the rookie, A.J. Cann. Pay attention to which player is more impressive through out this matchup. Controlling the line of scrimmage is crucial in this game and both team’s offensive lines have something to prove.

          Blake Bortles: Bortles had a great game last week against the Steelers. His stats were impressive and he even scored a rushing touchdown. The key to watching Bortles tonight is not in his numbers or his running ability; the key is for Blake to continue to show his improved release and mechanics. Look for him to attack a Giants secondary that struggled mightily last week. 

          Giants Player of Note: J.T. Thomas, the former Jaguars linebacker, who left the Jaguars for greener pastures, or more likely a greener wallet, is now a starting linebacker for the Giants. Thomas started much of the 2014 season for the Jaguars and would have provided the team great depth in 2015. Instead, he lines up for the Giants tonight and will play much of the first half.

          Jaguars Injuries: Julius Thomas and John Cyprien both suffered hand injuries in the Jags matchup with the Steelers in week 1. They will both be out tonight, but should be good to go for the regular season. T.J. Yeldon and Roy Miller are game time decisions, while Chris Clemons, who got to camp late and is still working to get back into game shape, will sit out. 

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