Fact or Fiction: South Beach Sadness

Three more games everyone. That’s how long we have to wait until we all finally see what we’ve been waiting for since the signs began to emerge – for me that was the Bears game. This rendition of the Jacksonville Jaguars is the worst in franchise history, and quite frankly it might not even be that close. The expansion team at least showed some promise in certain areas, particularly quarterback.

Neither of these jokers are Mark Brunell. US PRESSWIRE

Neither of these jokers are Mark Brunell.

With that said the Jaguars travel to Miami this week and will face a stout defense coming off of a loss. With a promising quarterback and a stable of young, productive running backs, the Dolphins’ arrow is pointing in the opposite directions as the Jaguars’.

Justin Blackmon will have 75+ yards and a touchdown: FACT

Blackmon’s best games have come with Cecil Shorts on the opposite side of the field from him. Fortunately, Shorts is likely going to start this week, which should give Blackmon plenty of opportunities to make plays across the middle of the field. Blackmon has been more off than on his rookie year, and the last three games are an opportunity for him to gain some momentum heading into next season.

The Jaguars will produce 2+ sacks: FICTION

Once again, the Jaguars should have some opportunities to rush the passer against an offensive line that starts Jonathan Martin at left tackle. But more often than not this season, the Jaguars have been unable to get to the quarterback in even the most favorable conditions. Until I see a consistent pass rush from anyone, I can’t see the Jaguars getting to the quarterback more than twice in a game.

Oct 14 2012; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins running back Reggie Bush (22) leaps over St. Louis Rams outside linebacker Jo-Lonn Dunbar (58) the fourth quarter at Sun Life Stadium. The Dolphins defeated the Rams 17-14. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports

Reggie Bush will have a play over 30 yards: FACT

The Jags’ rush defense has been porous all year and this has been highlighted the last two weeks. Shonn Greene had a good day rushing the ball last week (sad) and both Bills running backs had a field day two weeks ago. If Reggie Bush gets into open space, be it a pass or run, he can make people miss, especially on this defense.

Chad Henne will complete over 50% of his passes: FACT

Chad Henne completed 45.2% and 48.8% of his passes in his last two games. He’s looked more like Gabbert and the old Chad Henne over the last couple of weeks but some of that can be attributed to missing his best receiver, Cecil Shorts. With Shorts back in the lineup and Montell Owens running hard, Henne doesn’t have any excuses to complete less than half his pass attempts.

For the last three games this season we should really just pay attention to the little things. All the frustrations will remain – the consecutive three-and-outs, the inability to stop the run or rush the passer, the poor kick coverage – but the focus should be on which players make plays and deserve a chance next year.

Miami 31 – Jacksonville 17

-Daniel Lago