Get To Know Your Foe: Jacksonsonville Jaguars

While most NFL fans would rather rake leaves or clean out the gutters than be forced to sit through the Jaguars-Rams game, those in Jacksonville and St. Louis will both be glued to the television watching, what most would consider, a “must-win” for both teams. In order to get some background knowledge on the little-known Jaguars, Ramblin’ Fan went behind enemy lines and spoke with Daniel Lago, the editor at BlackAndTeal.com, the Jacksonville Jaguars site within the FanSided Network. Based on his answers, the “Jags faithful” appear to be holding onto hope that this could be their chance to shine. Check out our Q&A…

1. Is Blaine Gabbert the answer for the Jacksonville Jaguars at quarterback? How do the fans feel about his play in Jacksonville?

I think for most fans, myself included, Blaine Gabbert has been definitively ruled out as our quarterback of the future. General Manager David Caldwell essentially declared the same sentiment when he traded our starting left tackle four games into the season. There’s no reason to stack the offensive line with that much talent if Gabbert is awful regardless. He’s likely gone at the end of the season and replaced with our subsequent first round pick – probably Teddy Bridgewater.

2. Which rookie has stood out this season and could have a big impact in this game?

Most of our rookies have looked like rookies, but Luke Joeckel should have a great game back at his natural position at left tackle. He’s struggled a bit on the right side, but it’s probably due to inexperience. He has terrific technique and should hold his own against Robert Quinn.

3. Who is one player on the Jaguars offense the Rams should be worried about?

Honestly… nobody. Cecil Shorts is probably our best offensive player, but unfortunately the quarterback has to get him the ball. If the Rams do their homework, they’ll see that Gabbert targeted Cecil Shorts significantly more than any other receiver last week. In fact, Shorts leads the lead in targets (tied with A.J. Green at 51). If the Rams just stick Janoris Jenkins on Shorts they can probably go ahead and call it a day as far as gameplanning for the Jaguar offense.

4. Who is one player on the Jaguars defense the Rams should be worried about?

Our best and most consistent defensive player has been journeyman Will Blackmon. He had one (and should have had two) interceptions last week against Andrew Luck and was easily the most effective guy in coverage. Blackmon has feasted on the short-to-intermediate routes, which should serve him well given Sam Bradford’s penchant for keeping his throws short.

5. What’s your prediction for the game?

I’m not delusional enough to think the Jaguars can win this game outright, but the Rams have played pretty poorly for three weeks. The Jaguars have played even worse, but I think the offense will improve with the addition of Justin Blackmon and having Gabbert in the offense a second straight week. Unfortunately, the Jaguar defense has failed to provide a consistent pass rush and it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Rams nail a big pass play or two and put the game out of reach.

Rams 28 – Jaguars 23