Jaguars host the Chargers: Predicting the score

The Jaguars hope the return of Gardner Minshew as the starting quarterback ends a four-game losing streak this weekend.

You cannot help but love the fire and passion quarterback Gardner Minshew brings to the Jacksonville Jaguars.

The rookie signal-caller will once again be under center this week when the Jaguars face the Lo Angeles Chargers at home for a 4 PM game at TIAA Bank Field. Minshew replaced Nick Foles in the second half of last week’s 28-11 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and was named the starter for the remainder of the season on Monday by head coach Doug Marrone.

As a starter, the sixth-round draft pick out of Washington State was 4-4, very respectable for a first-year player learning the ropes in the NFL. His teammates rallied behind him, scoring points in the second half and have voiced their excitement to have him back in the lineup this week.

"“I love Gardner, and he brings energy,” wide receiver DJ Chark Jr. said via Jaguars.com. “So, when he’s out there, there’s no quit in him. There’s no quit in this team. Just seeing him out there, running around trying to make plays, you want to make plays for him. That’s the plan.”"

More from Jacksonville Jaguars News

• Jacksonville Jaguars should welcome Derrick Henry into the kingdom
• Jaguars Rumors: Trent Baalke seems to be getting respect now
• Jaguars News: This division rival might be making a big move
• Former Jacksonville Jaguars S Johnathan Cyprien: “New Profession, Same Standards”
• Jacksonville Jaguars TE Evan Engram officially gets the franchise tag: 3 takeaways

There are still plenty that Minshew is learning as he continues his NFL education, which includes holding onto the football. Fumbles have been an Achilles heel for the Jaguars, whether it be Foles or Minshew under center.

"“Minshew’s mobility and escapability are undeniable strengths. He also had issues during his eight games as a starter with turnovers, being intercepted five times and losing seven of 12 fumbles.” John Oehser writes."

Both the Jaguars and Chargers are 4-8 this season with no chance of making the playoffs. Per the Jaguars game day press release,  “The teams have previously met 10 times in the regular season, with the Chargers leading the series, 7-3. In their last meeting on Nov. 12, 2017, CB A.J. Bouye’s 51-yard INT return in overtime set up K Josh Lambo’s game-winning.”

We can only hope the same kind of excitement takes place on Sunday.

The staff here at Black and Teal once again offer their own opinions as to what happens during the game. See who they pick to win, whether it be the Jaguars or the Chargers.

Kathy Clark – The Jaguars play the LA Chargers this week. I was at the game last week and saw the energy that Gardner Minshew brought to the fan base and the team. I think that may make a difference but I don’t think that a quarterback change alone will fix this team.  So I am sadly picking the Chargers. Chargers 21 Jaguars 17

Jesse Overby – The Jaguars are hosting the Chargers this week and are only playing for pride at this point. Gardner Minshew is the starting quarterback again and Myles Jack was just put on IR. Philip Rivers should have a good day. Chargers win 24-13

Anthony Robertson – This week the Jags will be facing off against the Chargers. The Chargers have a lot of talent but have struggled to win games this year. Jacksonville is going with Gardner Minshew this week, and I think that will add some excitement to the team.

Despite that, I think the Chargers will, unfortunately, come away with the victory. Jacksonville 23 Los Angeles 31 

David Levin – Stop me if you have heard this one before. The Jaguars need this win. It’s becoming a mantra of sorts here in Jacksonville. A 4-8 team clinging to hope of a four-game winning streak to turn things around. Minshew takes the reins once again and the city is excited to see what he can accomplish.

The Chargers offense is still driven by quarterback Phillip Rivers and running back Melvin Gordon and Austin Ekeler. This is a team with weapons at wide receiver as well. It could be a long day for the defense. Oh, that’s also something Jaguars fans have heard recently.

I so want this team to win at home, but I can’t pull the trigger on a victory this week. Chargers 20 Jaguars 17

Lorenzino Estrada – Gardner Minshew is back leading the Jacksonville Jaguars after multiple horrendous games from Nick Foles. Minshew will have the opportunity to win the hearts of the Jaguars front office and coaching, who will be eager for the chance.

The Jaguars offense should open up much more with Minshew under center. Jacksonville will have a hard time stopping the talented Chargers backfield of Melvin Gordon and Austin Ekeler.

Expect Gordon and Eckler to have big games on a disappointing run defense. Coming across the country, Los Angeles will struggle. Jaguars win 24-17