Jacksonville Jaguars defense must tighten up, fix mistakes vs Broncos

The Jacksonville Jaguars’ defense will have a tough matchup in Week 2.

During Thursday’s presser, Joe Cullen emphasized the fact that they need to execute regardless of who their opponent is, “it’s about us really. Denver is a really good team. They’re well-coached, they got skilled even without [wide receiver Jerry] Jeudy”.

In the end, Cullen is right. On paper, it looked like the Jaguars’ defense would have no trouble neutralizing the Texans’ offense in Week 1 but they got outplayed. If they come in as unprepared in Week 1, they will stand no chance even with Jeudy out for the game. Denver placed the 2020 first-round pick on the Injured/Reserve list after suffering a high right ankle sprain in Week 1. Still, the Broncos have enough firepower to do some serious damage when they visit the Jaguars on Sunday.

Tim Patrick could have a big role on offense and KJ Hamler will step up in Jeudy’s absence. Jacksonville’s defense will also have to account for tight end Noah Fant, who hauled in six receptions for 62 yards against the New York Giants.

During the presser, Joe Cullen praised Broncos quarterback Teddy Bridgewater, who threw for two touchdowns. The 2014 first-round pick isn’t as mobile as Tyrod Taylor but can also extend plays. He added that the team needs to contain him and make plays.

"He had a great game last week versus the Giants. Extended plays, he can extend plays. He may be not as nifty as Tyrod [Taylor], flat-out speed, but he can extend plays. We got to keep them bottled up in the pocket, change up on him, and then make the plays on the ball."

As Cullen said, it’s too early to panic, and beating the Broncos would ensure the Jaguars are 1-1, which is definitely better than being 0-2 going into Week 3. It won’t be easy as they are currently a 6.0-point underdog. But if Jacksonville cleans up their mistakes, they will have a shot at pulling the upset.