Patriots vs. Jaguars 2012: First quarter game thread

Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports

The Jaguars have three running backs inactive for Sunday's game against the New England Patriots.

While Maurice Jones-Drew is set to miss his tenth consecutive game since suffering a foot injury against the Oakland Raiders, the Jaguars are set to see the return of linebacker Daryl Smith in Week 16 against the New England Patriots.

However, that hasn't inspired much hope in the Jaguars defense that ranks among the NFL's worst when they face the league's top offense. While perhaps the two most impressive performances by the Jaguars of the season came as huge underdogs to the Texans and Packers, they haven't had success against the Patriots historically.

Regardless, wins and losses aren't really the focal point of the 2012 season any more for the Jaguars, as the team is just over a week away from the beginning of an offseason of massive turnover. Strong performances from young players that are out to show that they have a future with the team are much more important aspects to keep your eyes on.

Inactives:

Jaguars

RB Rashad Jennings
RB Maurice Jones-Drew
CB Antwaun Molden
LB Brandon Marshall
OL Eben Britton
DE Austen Lane
RB Jonathan Grimes

Patriots

CB Alfonzo Dennard
RB James Develin
LB Brandon Spikes
OT Markus Zusevics
TE Rob Gronkowski
DE Jake Bequette
DT Ron Brace