Friday Fact or Fiction – Denver Broncos vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
By Daniel Lago
Aug 24, 2013; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Chad Henne (7) congratulates wide receiver Justin Blackmon (14) after he caught a touchdown pass during the first quarter of their game against the Philadelphia Eagles at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Phil Sears-USA TODAY Sports
I’m not sure if all of you have heard, but apparently the Jacksonville Jaguars are massive underdogs to the Denver Broncos this week. Clearly a lot has been made about the spread (which has been as high as 28 points) but that’s not what matters. What really matters is whether or not all of my fearless predictions below will come true.
Take out your life savings, grab a pint, and take these predictions to the bank:
Cecil Shorts and Justin Blackmon will both have 100+ yards receiving: FACT
Cecil Shorts and Justin Blackmon are so talented that I think they will put up great numbers in this matchup despite Chad Henne’s best efforts. Both receivers were open early and often last week and should have had much better numbers had Blaine Gabbert shown any semblance of accuracy or poise. This week the Jaguars will be behind probably immediately, so expect Shorts and Blackmon to get plenty of looks.
Peyton Manning will have +300 yards passing: FICTION
Peyton Manning has thrown for over 300 yards and at least two touchdowns in all 5 of his games so far this season. This week he finally meets his match. Well, not really. I expect Manning to put up big numbers in the first half, and probably be on the sideline for most of the second half. If the Broncos have a comfortable lead (20 or so points) the coaching staff won’t risk keeping Manning in the game.
Johnathan Cyprien will cause a turnover: FACT
Johnathan Cyprien is slowly growing into a force in the middle of the field. He’s forced two fumbles this season and had his hand in numerous big hits. Manning loves getting the ball out quick to his receivers, especially in the middle of the field, so expect Cyprien to line up and jar the ball loose at least once.
It’s going to take some miraculous twists of fate for the Jaguars to beat the Broncos straight up this weekend, but they’re going to beat the spread. I mean, they have to, right?
Prediction: Broncos 41- Jaguars 21
– Daniel Lago
Yell at me on Twitter @dlago89