Texans-Jaguars Preview: A Closer Look at the AFC South Rivalry

Texans-Jaguars Preview: A Closer Look at the AFC South Rivalry

As the NFL season continues to heat up, one of the most anticipated matchups in the AFC South division is approaching:

The Texans

With a record of 4-2, the Houston Texans are currently leading the division. Deshaun Watson is having an MVP-caliber season, throwing for 1,684 yards and 13 touchdowns while also adding three rushing touchdowns. Their defense is ranked fifth in the league, allowing an average of just 20.8 points per game.

The Jaguars

The Jacksonville Jaguars, on the other hand, are struggling with a 2-4 record. After an impressive 2017 campaign that saw them reach the AFC Championship Game, they have failed to live up to expectations. The offense, which ranks 31st in yards per game (278.5), is a major concern. Blake Bortles has been inconsistent, and the team’s rushing attack, once a strength, is now a weakness with Leonard Fournette dealing with injuries.

Previous Meetings

The Texans have won the last two meetings between these teams. In their most recent encounter, Deshaun Watson threw for 280 yards and four touchdowns in a 45-7 rout. However, the Jaguars will be hoping to turn the tables this time around at Wembley Stadium in London.

Key Matchups

One of the most interesting matchups will be between Houston’s J.J. Watt

(10 sacks) and Jacksonville’s left tackle Cam Robinson.

Predictions

Given the current form of both teams, it’s hard not to favor the Texans. Their offense is more potent, their defense is stronger, and they seem to have found a winning formula. However, nothing is guaranteed in football, especially when it comes to rivalry games. The Jaguars will be desperate to prove their doubters wrong and make a statement on the international stage.

Conclusion

The Texans-Jaguars game promises to be an exciting addition to the 2019 NFL schedule. With both teams having their strengths and weaknesses, it’s shaping up to be a close contest. Fans from both sides are eagerly anticipating this AFC South showdown at Wembley Stadium.

Texans-Jaguars Rivalry: A Crucial AFC South Showdown

Introduction

The Houston Texans and Jacksonville Jaguars, two AFC South teams, have developed a fierce rivalry over the years. The division, which also includes the Indianapolis Colts and Tennessee Titans, plays a significant role in determining who will secure a playoff spot and claim the AFC South title each season. This matchup between the Texans and Jaguars holds special importance for both franchises, as they continuously strive for dominance within their division.

Brief Overview of the Texans-Jaguars Rivalry

The Texans and Jaguars have met 37 times in the regular season, with Houston holding a 21-16 edge. Their first encounter was on September 14, 2003, when the Texans emerged victorious in their inaugural game in franchise history. However, it wasn’t until October 18, 2015, that this rivalry reached new heights when the Jaguars handed the Texans their first shutout loss in team history with a score of 21-0. Since then, both teams have traded wins and losses, keeping fans on the edge of their seats each time they face off.

Importance of the Division and Significance of This Matchup

The AFC South is more than just a division – it represents a pathway to the playoffs. Winning the division title grants a team home-field advantage during the Wild Card round, giving them a valuable edge over their opponents. As a result, every game within the division carries immense significance. The Texans and Jaguars understand that a win against one another can significantly impact their season and potentially secure a spot in the postseason. With both teams boasting talented rosters, each matchup promises to be an intense battle that leaves fans on the edge of their seats.

Houston Texans: Current Standing and Key Players

The Houston Texans, currently holding a 4-5 record, find themselves in the middle of the pack within the AFC South. At present, they trail behind the

Tennessee Titans

(6-2) and the

Indianapolis Colts

(5-3), but are ahead of the

Jacksonville Jaguars

(1-7). This division remains competitive, with every team possessing unique strengths and weaknesses that could shift the balance of power as the season progresses.

Offensive Overview

Quarterback Situation:

The Texans’ offense features a complex quarterback situation, with Deshaun Watson returning from injury and Tyrod Taylor currently under center. Watson, a dynamic playmaker, has proven to be an asset when healthy, while Taylor offers a steady hand and experience. It remains unclear which quarterback will claim the starting position long term.

Wide Receivers:

The Texans’ receiving corps boasts three talented wideouts: Brandin Cooks, Will Fuller V, and David Johnson. Cooks, a speedster with excellent route-running abilities, has amassed 503 receiving yards and three touchdowns. Fuller, returning from suspension, has been limited to just two games this season, but displayed explosive potential when active. Johnson, a versatile player who joined the team via trade, will contribute in both the running and passing games.

Ground Game

The Texans’ ground attack is anchored by Johnson and the team’s offensive line. Their ability to establish a reliable rushing game will not only lessen the burden on their quarterback but also open up opportunities for big plays through the air.

Defensive Analysis

Pass Rush

Houston’s defensive strength lies in their front seven, particularly the formidable duo of J.J. Watt and Whitney Mercilus. Both players are proven pass rushers who have consistently disrupted opposing offenses.

Secondary

The Texans’ secondary, featuring the likes of Justin Reid and Vernon Hargreaves III, has displayed improvement but remains a question mark. The team’s cornerback depth is of concern, as injuries have forced Houston to rely on inexperienced players.

Key Injuries

The Texans have suffered several significant injuries, including Watson’s injury and Fuller’s suspension. Both players are crucial to the team’s offensive success. The impact of these setbacks cannot be underestimated, as Houston navigates a challenging division race.

I Jacksonville Jaguars: Current Standing and Key Players

As of week 7, the Jacksonville Jaguars hold a record of 1-5, placing them at the bottom of the link division. With the Tennessee Titans, Indianapolis Colts, and Houston Texans all showing promising performances, the Jaguars find themselves struggling to keep up.

Offensive Overview:

The Jacksonville offense has seen a mix of strengths and weaknesses so far this season. In terms of the quarterback position, Gardner Minshew II has made appearances in three games, compiling a passer rating of 87.9. However, with Mike Glennon taking the reins in two games, the offense has a rating of 104.It’s unclear whether Minshew or Glennon will provide a more consistent threat moving forward.

The Jaguars boast an impressive running game with James Robinson, who leads the team with 395 rushing yards and averages 4.7 yards per carry, and backup Carlos Hyde. Together, they form a potent rushing attack that ranks fifth in the league.

In the receiving corps, DJ Chark Jr., a Pro Bowler last season, has shown flashes of brilliance with 27 receptions for 408 yards and two touchdowns. Laviska Shenault Jr., a rookie, is another promising weapon with 22 receptions for 217 yards and two touchdowns.

Defensive Overview:

On the defensive side, the Jaguars exhibit both strengths and weaknesses. The team’s front seven features star pass rusher Josh Allen, who has recorded five sacks this season, and emerging talent K’Lavon Chaisson. Together, they pose a significant threat to opposing quarterbacks.

However, the secondary leaves much to be desired. Rookies C.J. Henderson and Tre Herndon have shown potential but also inconsistency. The cornerback group, in general, is a weakness that opponents can exploit.

Injuries and Impact:

The Jaguars have faced their fair share of injuries this season, with notable players like Myles Jack, Cam Robinson, and James O’Shaughnessy all missing significant time. These injuries have forced the team to rely on younger players, adding complexity to their roster management and overall performance.

Preview of Texans-Jaguars Matchup:

Overview of the history between these two teams, including recent meetings

The Houston Texans and Jacksonville Jaguars have a long-standing rivalry in the AFC South. With both teams battling for division supremacy, this year’s matchup on October 3, 2021, promises to be an exciting one. In their last five meetings, the Texans have won three games while the Jaguars have taken two. However, it’s important to note that both teams have undergone significant roster changes since their last encounter.

Analysis of the Texans’ key matchups against the Jaguars:

Deshaun Watson vs. Jacksonville secondary

One of the most critical matchups will be Houston’s star quarterback, Deshaun Watson, against Jacksonville’s secondary. Watson has been playing exceptional football this season, leading the league in passing yards (1,679) and completions (152). The Jaguars’ secondary, led by C.J. Henderson and Shaquill Griffin, will look to limit Watson’s production and force turnovers.

Houston’s running game versus the Jaguars’ front seven

Another key area for Houston will be their running game, which has been solid with Carlos Hyde and David Johnson. The Jaguars’ front seven, headlined by Myles Jack and Josh Allen, will attempt to limit Houston’s rushing attack. Controlling the clock through a successful ground game could be crucial for the Texans in this contest.

J.J. Watt and the Texans’ pass rush vs. Gardner Minshew II and Jacksonville’s offensive line

J.J. Watt‘s return to the Texans has brought an invigorated pass rush, and the team will look to pressure Gardner Minshew II frequently. Jacksonville’s offensive line, which includes Cam Robinson and Brandon Linder, will aim to keep Minshew upright and give him time to make throws.

Preview of Jaguars’ key matchups against the Texans:

Gardner Minshew II vs. Houston’s secondary

Jacksonville’s offense will rely on their backup quarterback, Minshew, to outduel Watson. Houston’s secondary, anchored by Vernon Hargreaves III and Justin Reid, will look to make life difficult for Minshew. Containing the Jaguars’ passing attack could be a significant factor in determining the outcome of this game.

James Robinson and Jacksonville’s rushing attack versus the Texans’ run defense

Running back James Robinson has been a bright spot for Jacksonville, leading the team in rushing yards (479) and touchdowns (5). Houston’s run defense, featuring Zach Cunningham and Benardrick McKinney, must contain Robinson to prevent the Jaguars from taking control of the game.

Josh Allen and the Jaguars’ pass rush versus Deshaun Watson and the Texans’ offensive line

The final key matchup lies with Jacksonville’s pass rush, led by Josh Allen, and Houston’s offensive line. The Texans’ line, consisting of Laremy Tunsil and Tytus Howard, will aim to protect Watson and keep him comfortable in the pocket. Allen and his teammates’ ability to generate pressure on Watson could significantly impact the game’s outcome.

Conclusion: Analysis of the Texans-Jaguars Rivalry, Predictions, and Implications for AFC South and Playoff Race

Recap of the Texans-Jaguars rivalry and its significance in the AFC South:

The Texans-Jaguars rivalry is a long-standing one, with both teams competing fiercely for the AFC South division title. This rivalry gained significant momentum in 2017 when the Texans defeated the Jaguars in a thrilling playoff game, advancing to the Divisional Round. Since then, the two teams have faced off multiple times with both emerging victorious on some occasions. The stakes are high once again as they prepare to meet in the 2023 season, with the AFC South title and a potential playoff spot on the line.

Predictions for the upcoming matchup:

Texans (7-3): The Texans have had a solid season so far, with their defense being a major strength. They rank third in the league in total defense and have only allowed an average of 17.3 points per game. QB Deshaun Watson has been instrumental in their offense, with 26 touchdowns and only seven interceptions on the season.
Jaguars (5-5): The Jaguars have shown improvement this season, particularly on defense, where they rank eighth in the league. Their offense, however, has been inconsistent with rookie QB Trevor Lawrence struggling to find a rhythm. They have shown flashes of brilliance but will need to be more consistent if they are to challenge the Texans.

C.What does a Texans’ win mean for their position in the division?

With a win, the Texans would secure their spot at the top of the AFC South standings and put some distance between themselves and their closest rivals. This would give them a significant advantage in terms of playoff positioning, as they would be well-placed to secure one of the top four spots in the AFC.

C.How might a Jaguars’ victory affect their postseason chances?

A Jaguars win would keep them in the hunt for a wild card spot. They would need to win out their remaining games and hope for some favorable results from other teams. However, they would gain momentum and confidence heading into the final stretch of the season.

Final thoughts on the importance of this game and what it means for both teams moving forward:

This game represents a significant opportunity for both teams to make a statement and take control of their respective playoff fortunes. With the AFC South title on the line, it promises to be an intense battle. The outcome will have far-reaching implications for both teams and could prove to be a turning point in their seasons.