Storylines to Watch Jacksonville Jaguars V. Green Bay Packers
The Jacksonville Jaguars have a stiff test against the Green Bay Packers to open the season and there are plenty of storylines to watch.
Blake Bortles
One factor for this game will be Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Blake Bortles’ ability to reduce turnovers. Interceptions and fumbles came during key drives last season. Entering his third year in the league, Bortles looks to get off to a fast start. One interesting thing to note was during the off-season Bortles sought out veteran quarterbacks to help with his game. One of those was Aaron Rodgers; let’s see Sunday if anything rubbed off.
The Allens Against the Green Bay Pass Defense.
Allen Robinson and Allen Hurns had breakout seasons last year. Can they keep it going headed into 2016?
Their first test will be against a stout Packers pass defense. Led by Damarious Randall and Sam Shields at corner (each had three interceptions last year), the Packers are looking to slow down the Allens headed into Week 1. I believe the packer’s defensive backs will have trouble covering the third year receivers.
Also play attention to the play of Marqise Lee headed into this game. Lee is looking to have a productive start to the season since dealing with injuries early on in his career. Making the most of his time on the field would be a good start for his explosive talent.
The Jacksonville Jaguars Offensive Line Verses the Green Bay Packers Defensive Line.
The Jags offensive line have given up 50+ sacks in each of the last two seasons. The addition of Kelvin Beachum looks to help solidify what has been a shaky position recently for the team. Luke Joeckel will also be adjusting to his new position at left guard.
Giving Bortles enough time to get the ball downfield will be a good sign early. Another factor in this battle upfront will be how well the offensive line blocks for the running backs. Giving T.J Yeldon and Chris Ivory running lanes will only help the Jaguars’ rushing attack improve on its 27th ranking from last season.
Gus Bradley Season Opener
This game will be a good test for Coach Bradley who is entering his fourth year with the team. Season openers haven’t been successful in Bradley’s tenure, going 0-3. Staying competitive will be a good start for the team but winning should be the goal. Bradley will have to stay strong and prove that he is able to coach the team to a victory in week 1.
Jags Defensive Back Play
The defensive backs will have a tall order on Sunday covering the likes of Jordy Nelson, Randall Cobb and Davante Adams. Jaguars cornerback Davon House was a member of the Packers two years ago and this won’t be his first time seeing Nelson in action.
The additions of Jalen Ramsey and Prince Amukamara also look to slow down Aaron Rodgers and the Packers passing attack. A few things on my mind were how many times will the packers go after Ramsey in his rookie debut? Can the Jags get any takeaways? These questions will all be answered Sunday but if the Jags look to compete then the defensive backs will need to be on top of their game.
Next: Predictions for every Jags game in 2016
Keep these storylines in mind during the game on Sunday. All the speculation and waiting that is the offseason is now behind us. Make no mistake, the development of players and coaches will be put to the test on Sunday. Let’s see if they can get a win. However the game turns out it will be nice watching the team play again. Go Jags!