Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Detroit Lions – 5 Players to Watch

After 2 solid outings this preseason, the Jaguars look to maintain their positive momentum as they head to Detroit on Friday night to take on the Lions. Week 3 is traditionally approached by teams as the most “serious” game, or the game closest to live-speed. While coaches are still going to keep schemes bare-bones and plays simple, starters will play into the 3rd quarter. It’s the most important game in the preseason in terms of evaluating the starters.

With that in mind, here are 5 players who you should keep an eye on Friday night.

Aug 8, 2014; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Blake Bortles (5) warms up prior to the preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports

Blake Bortles, Quarterback

While it seems like taking the easy way out by picking the first quarterback taken in the draft, there are additional reasons to keep a close eye on Bortles against the Detroit Lions. While he has looked good in his first two appearances, Bortles has only played against 2nd team defenses. He should get his first look with the first team offense against the first team Lions defense and we’ll see how well he plays facing starting-caliber NFL talent.