Looking ahead at the Jacksonville Jaguars’ opening games.
We are about three months away from the start of the regular season and the predictions are running wild for the Jaguars.
Are they in contention for the division, or will it be a repeat of last year? This is part one of a four-part look into the Jags’ season.
Week 1: Carolina Panthers @ Everbank Stadium
I think if we start off with losing to the Panthers, I am going to have to rewrite a lot of my predictions.
The last time we played them, we won 26-0 and this was without Trevor Lawrence, ruled out with a shoulder injury.
Despite a resurgence under Bryce Young and a game that we should not underestimate, I have us down to win comfortably, taking us to 1-0 for the season.
Prediction: Win
Week 2: Cincinnati Bengals @ Paycor Stadium
This is where the meat of the season starts and a real test for the new look Jags.
The Bengals are a strong team with Joe Burrow and the likes of Ja’Marr Chase as well as the capabilities on defence.
Despite the new weapons that we have acquired in the offseason, I think that if the Bengals continue their form from the tail-end of last season, then this will most likely be a competitive game but a loss nonetheless.
Prediction: Loss
Week 3: Houston Texans @ Everbank Stadium
I think this could be the game that defines our season. Disregarding for a moment the obvious strength of the Texans, last season, this was a game that descended into controversy.
The supposedly ‘dirty hit’ from Azeez Al-Shaair on Trevor Lawrence ultimately sidelined him for the rest of the season.
Due to home advantage and what I am sure will be a less-than-hospitable atmosphere based on recent memories, I think Jacksonville could edge a tightly fought contest.
Prediction: Win
Week 4: San Francisco 49ers @ Levi’s Stadium
Based on the 2022 and 2023 seasons, it was surprising last season to see the 49ers slip to 6-11 having made a Super Bowl and consecutive conference championship appearances.
I think that we have to take this as a ‘blip’, and that they will be back to decent strength for the forthcoming season.
With weapons such as Brock Purdy and Christian McCaffrey, I expect this to be a tough road game and the Jags end up on the losing side.
Prediction: Loss
