How Jacksonville Can Defeat New England
The Jacksonville Jaguars have had a standout season this year, and don’t seem like they’re letting up anytime soon. They have acquired two key pieces to their defensive line in Marcell Dareus and Calais Campbell this year, which have catapulted the franchise into the AFC Championship.
With Leonard Fournette and T.J Yeldon running the ball efficiently, as well as Blake Bortles seemingly stepping up this postseason, the team has looked great on both sides of the ball.
That dominance has certainly carried over from the regular season, as Jacksonville was able to defeat the Pittsburgh Steelers within the divisional round of the playoffs. Defensive stud Calais Campbell has reeled in 14.5 sacks this season, which makes him a force to be reckoned with. With his speed and size, the Patriots offensive line will need extra work on him.
Not only is Campbell on the defensive line, but there is also Marcell Dareus. In all reality, running backs Dion Lewis, James White and Brandon Bolden (if he plays) will have a difficult time against this defensive line. Even by breaking through the defensive front, there are still forces in Telvin Smith, Paul Posluszny, and Myles Jack at the linebacker position.
The main priority for the Jaguars defense against the Patriots this weekend is to stop the run game, and to get to Brady early on. By applying pressure and giving Brady less time to work with in the pocket, the Jacksonville defense could very well have the upper-hand on crucial drives.
On the offense, Jacksonville will need to come out guns blazing and get on the board early, just as they did against Pittsburgh. Getting Fournette and Yeldon involved early on will be key this weekend, but they’ll also need to add their receivers in the mix as well.
Jacksonville definitely has the roster, coaching, and the talent to put their first ever Super Bowl appearance, as well as their first Super Bowl title under their belts.
All in all, Jacksonville needs to keep the steamroller mentality running to get through the Patriots, and they’ll have to play harder than they’ve ever played before.
