Jacksonville Jaguars: 3 matchups that will decide the game vs Cardinals

2. The Jacksonville Jaguars’ secondary must slow down the Cards’ offense.

Asking the Jaguars’ back seven to shut down the Cardinals’ passing game would be unrealistic. Wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins is listed as questionable but teammate A.J. Green thinks he will suit up, “Hop don’t miss games“.

Even if Hopkins doesn’t play, quarterback Kyler Murray will have a well-rounded group of receivers at his disposal. Rookie Rondale Moore is currently leading the team with 11 receptions for 182 yards and one touchdown. Even if the Jaguars manage to cover him, Murray can simply look for Green, Christian Kirk, running back Chase Edmons, and tight end Maxx Williams, all of who have proven to be reliable targets.

Meanwhile, the Jaguars could be short-handed at cornerback. Tre Herndon is nursing an MCL injury and sophomore C.J. Henderson is dealing with a groin injury. Both are listed as questionable and it’s uncertain if they will play in Week 3. There’s a chance rookie Tyson Campbell will line up outside and the coaching staff could even call up Nevin Lawson, who just signed with the team. Also, Chris Claybrooks could get a good amount of snaps.

The Jaguars must limit the number of play big plays, force turnovers, and make as many stops as possible to get the offense the ball back. The more possessions they have, the higher their chances to put points on the scoreboard will be. The Cardinals have shown they can score at ease, and Jacksonville needs to look for ways to keep up with them.