AFC South power rankings: Jacksonville Jaguars losing ground

The Jacksonville Jaguars are in a 3-way tie for 2nd place in the division.

The Indianapolis Colts made the playoffs last year and they thought that trading for quarterback Carson Wentz in the offseason could help them get over the hump. The second overall pick in the 2016 draft posted solid numbers in Week 1, going 25-of-38 for 251 yards and two touchdowns. However, his performance was good enough to keep up with a Seattle Seahawks team that scored 28 points.

Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson had a great game, throwing four touchdowns and no interceptions. Meanwhile, the Colts had a crucial fumbled in the third quarterback and their offense couldn’t take advantage of most of their opportunities. Moreover, Wentz was sacked three times and pressured ten times. To add insult to injury right guard Braden Smith left the game, and his status for Week 2 remains uncertain. Julian Davenport, who started at left tackle, also struggled.

If Indy wants to keep Wentz upright, they have better fix the protection up front. The Colts quarterback has dealt with several injuries over the last few years. Losing him would be a big blow, as there’s a significant dropoff from him to backup quarterback Jacob Eason. Things won’t get any easier against the Los Angeles Rams, their Week 2 opponent. Matthew Stafford was outstanding in his first game as the Rams quarterback after being traded earlier this year. Also, Indianapolis’ offensive line will have to face off against one of the best defensive players in the NFL in defensive tackle Aaron Donald.