“Just Get Better” Jags: Grading Each Position from Sunday’s Win vs. New York Giants

Nov 30, 2014; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Marqise Lee (11) runs with the ball during the fourth quarter against the New York Giants at EverBank Field. The Jaguars won 25-24. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

Head Coach Gus Bradley’s motto to “just get better” has the player’s trust and beliefs in him, but the product has been less than stellar since taking over as the Jaguars’ coach and many question as to whether or not his approach is working in Jacksonville.

Taking a look at the last five games of the season, it will be incredibly important to take a look at each week and see if there is a noticeable improvement heading into the off-season at each position.  Comparing the trend from week 12 to week 17 will help dictate if the team is getting any better.

Starting with this past Sunday’s win over the Giants, here is a breakdown of each position:

Quarterback: B-

Although it would be easy to give Blake Bortles a “C”, the fact of the matter is that he stepped up when it mattered most and was able to connect with Marqise Lee for a clutch TD, as well as get in field goal range with his legs.  Bortles has a long ways to go, but Sunday could be a key game for his confidence and growth as a quarterback.

Running Back: C

Denard Robinson (11 car./44 yds) and Toby Gerhart (5 car./7 yds) did not add much to the Jaguars offense on Sunday.  Robinson was most successful in the wildcat formation, which was well-placed in the second half thanks to Jedd Fisch.  The offensive line has a large part to do with the lack of holes opening up for both players, but it was not a good sign when Blake Bortles (5 car./68 yards) is the leading rusher in the game.

Wide Receivers: B-

Down a starter in Allen Robinson, the Jaguars wide receivers did a decent job when they were able to get enough time to run their routes.  Marqise Lee came out of the game as the star receiver with 75 yds and his one touchdown reception.  Given some more time, the Jaguars have a few playmakers on the outside to work with.

Tight End: C-

Marcedes Lewis is really more of an offensive lineman compared to a tight end, but he did a decent job of blocking on Sunday.  With only one catch, Lewis’ ability to block is especially needed with such a poor offensive line.

Offensive Line: F

Should be little to no surprise, but the Jaguars offensive line has been dreadful this season.  Highly touted left tackle Luke Joeckel struggled heavily, giving up two sacks with the team giving up a total of seven sacks on the day.  Bortles did the best he could with the time he was given, but the Jaguars will need to make large upgrades in the off season to fix a line that just cannot seem to get it together.

Next: The Defense Won the Game, How'd They Grade?