Jacksonville Jaguars vs. San Diego Chargers: Can the Jaguars Finally Win?

Oct 14, 2013; San Diego, CA, USA; Indianapolis Colts fullback Stanley Havili (39) is tackled by San Diego Chargers cornerback Derek Cox (22) and linebacker Larry English (51) at Qualcomm Stadium. The Chargers defeated the Colts 19-9. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

The Jaguars shocked the world last Sunday by not getting blown out by the Denver Broncos in Mile High Stadium. As comical as that might sound, it actually was an encouraging performance for the Jaguars and one that hinted at the potential this team has.

This week the Jaguars return home to host the San Diego Chargers. Coming off a low scoring win Monday night against the Indianapolis Colts, the Chargers head into Jacksonville confident that they can get a win and improve to 4-3.

With a game against the San Francisco 49ers in London looming the following week, the Jaguars’ best shot at getting a win before the bye week is at home against San Diego. So, is it possible?

Yes. Vegas might not think so, but the Jaguars have the proper circumstances to challenge the Chargers this week. The Chargers are travelling across the country after a short week where they won in a rather tenuous manner. The Chargers weakest unit is their pass defense and they got a huge break last week with the Colts receivers dropping 4 passes at key times. The Chargers have 3 of the 10 lowest graded cornerbacks according to Pro Football Focus (former Jaguar Derek Cox included). Coincidentally, Jaguars wide receiver Justin Blackmon has been an absolute beast since his return two weeks ago and should feast on these cornerbacks in the slot. The probable return of Marcedes Lewis should also help open up the passing game.

Additionally, the Jaguar defense looked relatively effective against the most potent offense in the NFL last week. The defensive backfield is starting to grow into a solid unit and the return of Dwayne Gratz should improve the group. If the Jaguars can get some semblance of a pass rush, they could keep the game close.

It wouldn’t be surprising if the Jaguars head into Everbank this Sunday and get it handed to them by the Chargers, but it shouldn’t be surprising if they keep it close and eke out a win.

– Daniel Lago

Yell at me on Twitter @dlago89