Key match ups in the Jaguars preseason opener vs the Ravens
With starters getting limited snaps, which are the most intriguing matchups for the Jaguars preseason opener?
The preseason opener is usually used to assess the rookies and players recently added looking for spots on the roster. The game between the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Baltimore Ravens is no different.
Often key players such as Jalen Ramsey, Nick Foles, and Calais Campbell do not play the preseason opener. Though the stars may not be playing or will be limited, there is still a lot to be excited about for the first game of the year.
For one thing, Jaguars football is back! Fans and players alike are excited to start the new season and it will be interesting to see how changes affect the team. Another thing to look forward to is some of the rookies getting their first ever taste NFL action.
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With that being, said many of the rookie players will be featured in the key matchups for this game against the Baltimore Ravens.
Josh Allen vs. Ravens O-Line – The Jaguars decided to boost what was already a very scary pass rush by selecting defensive end Josh Allen with the 7th overall pick of the draft.
Allen will more than likely serve as a rotational player throughout the year, but it will be very interesting to watch a defensive front featuring Allen, Campbell, and Yannick Ngakoue. It may take some time to adjust, but there is no doubt that Allen will be a player to look for in this upcoming game.
Jawaan Taylor vs. Ravens Pass Rush – On the other side of the football, the Jaguars used their second round pick on Jawaan Taylor, the big right tackle out of Florida.
Taylor was predicted by most to be a first round talent and some even had the Jaguars taking him with the seventh overall pick. Taylor is looking to improve an offensive line that struggled with protecting the quarterback as creating holes for the running back.
The Ravens have always been known for their defense and it will be interesting to see how the rookie lineman manages in his first game.
Gardner Minshew vs. Ravens Defense – Gardner Minshew is fighting for the role as the Jaguars backup quarterback. Foles may start the game, but its highly unlikely he will play more than a series or two.
Minshew is going to be getting a large portion of the reps at quarterback and if he impresses he may not only secure his spot on the final roster but he might lock up the position as a backup as well.
If Minshew has continued success in this offense, he may even make a case for a developmental rookie to mold for the future.
The Jaguars receivers vs the Ravens secondary – The Jaguars receivers have all looked impressive in camp. DJ Chark is looking like he has improved tremendously and has made some very good catches down the field and in the redzone.
Dede Westbrook looks like he will build off a solid season last year. Chris Conley also seems to have very good chemistry with Foles, and may be a breakout player to watch next season. Of course, looking good in camp is one thing and translating that to in game effectiveness is another.
The Jaguars receivers all look good across the board and hopefully, a bit of that can be seen in the preseason opener.