JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Jaguars season is back and our News4JAX sports staff is back with its predictions as well. Each week, we’ll unveil our predictions for the week’s game. Jacksonville (2-6) has been all over the place and travels to Philadelphia (5-2) on Sunday at 4:05 p.m. for what feels like a must-win game for the franchise.
Kyle Ashley
Season record: 4-4.
I am normally a glass half full kind of guy but as this Jaguar season is rolled on, I find myself feeling less and less optimistic about the season. This past game against the Packers could have been the final straw. They really needed to win, a big win, to spark their season and go on a run. They were unable to do that and an incredible game tying catch by Evan Engram that should be remembered forever, will be forgotten due to the outcome. The Eagles are a good team. They’re also extremely tough and physical and I feel like it could just be a bad matchup for the Jaguars this week, especially since they’ll be rolling out somewhat of a different team because of all the starters that won’t be playing due to injuries. One last thing I’ll say is that throughout the season, the Jaguars have shown me that they’re learning ways to lose ball games and I just don’t see that changing now, especially in this game. So give me Philadelphia. — Eagles 31, Jaguars 17.
Justin Barney
Season record: 3-5.
Tough to figure this team out. They have been too erratic to pick to win. The pass defense has been abysmal and the injuries are mounting. Jacksonville has played better than its record and only been blown out of the water twice. The Jaguars just can’t find a way to close out an opponent. I’m not convinced that the Jaguars can win a must-win game on the road. — Eagles 28, Jaguars 21.
Alessandra Pontbriand
Season record: 5-3.
I unfortunately do not think the Jaguars will find success in Philadelphia. There are too many injuries to deal with and although Doug Pederson preaches “next man up” mentality, I don’t think it will be easy to replace Christian Kirk. Jalen Hurts is connecting with his receivers, AJ Brown and DeVonta Smith, at a high level and finding success. Brown is averaging 102 yards in four games this season. While Smith has been targeted the most this season totaling 386 yards and three touchdowns. The Jaguars do not have much success shutting down a passing offense. They’re tied for second to last in yards per attempt (8.1) and total passing yards this season (2,272). It’s not just the passing game that the Jaguars need to worry about. The Eagles ground game is anchored by Saquon Barkley who is averaging 109.4 yards per game, but Hurts can also run. He leads the team with seven rushing touchdowns this season. There’s a lot to talk about in this match up, but I think we’ll see an Eagles offense that will have a good day. The Jaguars are giving up 30+ points in three of the past four games so Philadelphia wins. — Eagles 31, Jaguars 17.
Jamal St. Cyr
Season record: 2-6.
I tried to be positive. I tried to be half full, but the glass spilled and is now empty. The Jags are 2-6 and when they leave Philly they will be 2-7. The only hope the Jags have are if going into a hostile environment like Philly helps the team remember how to start games fast. Highly doubtful but I guess it could happen. — Eagles 30, Jaguars 20.
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