Jacksonville Jaguars vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Quick takeaways

The Jacksonville Jaguars slugged it out against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the second preseason game of 2016, giving us plenty to ponder while evaluating the roster.

It being the preseason, the final score matters a lot less than how individual players performed for their teams. The Jacksonville Jaguars are a young up and coming team with plenty of players trying to prove themselves.

The big takeaway from this game didn’t come from the players who are proving themselves, though. It came from the players that are already established.

Blake Bortles and the Jags offense continued their dominance through the preseason against the Bucs. Bortles finished the night eight of 11 for 85 yards with two touchdowns, including a beautiful pass to Allen Hurns. Not to be outdone, the play of the night came from fellow receiver Allen Robinson.

It was a strong performance for the offense on the whole, not just the passing game. Luke Joeckel looked like the left tackle the Jags thought he could be when they drafted him second overall in 2013. The offensive line on the whole was comfortable and blocking well, especially in the running game.

Chris Ivory and T.J. Yeldon combined for 40 yards on eight carries. They ran over defenders, slipped through tackles, and moved with an ease that has been rare for Jags runners in recent years. It looks more and more like the Jags rushing attack is the real deal in 2016.

Another big highlight was the debut of Jalen Ramsey on defense. While Myles Jack continued to be impressive through the game at linebacker, it was Ramsey’s big tackle for a loss early in the game that draw’s the most attention.

Sen’Derrick Marks also had his presence felt through the game. When he was on the field, he was creating opportunities for other players to clean up after he disrupted the offense. No longer a starter, he’ll be a key part of the rotation going forward.

Deeper down the roster, Josh Johnson’s interception that he took to the house in the fourth quarter was a big highlight. He made a quick play on the ball and caught the eye of the coaches and fans in the same instant. He ran it back 79 yards.

must read: Just how dominant has the 1st team offense been?

One of the less impressive aspects of the night was the special teams coverage unit, again. The special teams unit allowed multiple long punt returns (over 15 yards) and a 31-yard kickoff return as well. The unit needs to step up.

Final score: Jacksonville Jaguars 21, Tampa Bay Buccaneers 27.