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If preseason predictions are to be trusted — as they always should be, trust us — the Jacksonville Jaguars will be much improved this season.
USA Today believes the Jaguars go 10-6 and earn a playoff spot.
Sports Illustrated thinks the Jaguars climb to 9-7 but barely lose out on a Wild Card tiebreaker to the Houston Texans.
JAGUARS: 9–7
Assuming this team pacifies two of its more mercurial-leaning superstars, I think the Jaguars are going to return to form as one of the toughest week-in, week-out opponents in the NFL. Oddly, I have them beating the Texans on the road and losing in London, despite their increased comfort with the logistical turnaround. This division is going to be NFC East-level brutal, but after a few spins through the schedule I can certainly see them within striking distance of a wildcard spot.
I tend to agree with Sports Illustrated a bit more than USA Today so far. I think with a middling offense and newly signed quarterback Nick Foles being an average starter under center, the ceiling for this team will be 8-9 wins and barely missing out on the playoffs this year.
That’s not to say it can’t happen. The defense could continue to play as a top unit in the league and help with the scoring — as they did in 2017 with six defensive touchdowns and countless sacks, pressures, and forced fumbles.
But with Malik Jackson gone and the linebacking unit in disarray, I just don’t see it happening.
What do you think? Will the Jaguars secure their second winning season in three years? Or will this offense need another year of rebuild to get back to their winning ways? Let us know in the comments below!