The Jacksonville Jaguars will be hosting the Los Angeles Chargers in an important Week 10 matchup (important because if we don’t stuff Gus Bradley’s defense we’re cooked, folks...) and to get us ready we’re trading questions with Richard Wade from Bolts From The Blue!
1. Your offensive line has been shuffled a bit, but it still doesn't look bad. Am I overestimating the unit or is it a better line than we give it credit for?
The offensive line is not that bad given how terrible it was last year. Russell Okung has been incredible (arguably the best player on the offense). Spencer Pulley and Kenny Wiggins have been solid if unspectacular on the interior of the line. Matt Slauson was a bit of a mess before getting injured and Dan Feeney is a rookie, but he is a much better athletic fit for the way the Chargers like to play under Anthony Lynn. At right tackle, Joe Barksdale has been better than he was last year when he has played, but he has also missed too much time and the depth at right tackle is less than ideal.
2. That said, should Jaguars fans expect anything other than domination from our defensive line?
As improved as the Chargers offensive line is, the Jaguars defensive line is still way, way better than they are and I expect them to demonstrate that fact on Sunday. Philip Rivers better be ready to get rid of the ball in a hurry every time he drops back.
3. How have the Chargers traditionally done against quick, aggressive defenses? Do they change their game plan and go more conservative? Do they just continue to play their game?
The Chargers have responded to defenses like the Jaguars (insomuch as anyone is like the Jaguars this season) by keeping Hunter Henry in to block a lot. This makes in that he is their best blocking tight end and he is able to make a difference there. It is somewhat self-defeating in that he is also the Chargers' best weapon in the passing game so by keeping him in they're letting the defense essentially take him away without even trying.
4. Who is the Jaguars player on the defensive side of the ball that you'd say, "If the Chargers don't stop him, we're in trouble"?
If the Chargers can't deal with Calais Campbell, they will be in a great deal of trouble. I also don't see how they can stop him, so I guess what I'm saying is I expect a great deal of trouble.
5. What's gonna happen on Sunday? Will the Jaguars be able to get a win? Will the Chargers surprise us?
I fully expect a Jaguars victory. I think the Chargers will try to open up the passing game against them and I think that will fail miserably. Leonard Fournette should run all over the Chargers and they will end up in a deficit. Once that happens, they will be forced to throw even more and the result will be multiple turnovers. I like the Jaguars in this game by two scores.