Jaguars: 3 keys to victory vs Bengals on Thursday Night Football

2. The Jacksonville Jaguars can’t turn the ball over against the Bengals.

Quarterback Trevor Lawrence arguably had his best game of the season in Week 1, at least statistically speaking. Against the Houston Texans, he threw three touchdowns and three interceptions. In the last two games, he’s thrown just two touchdowns and four interceptions.

Not all of the interceptions are his fault but Lawrence is aware he needs to cut down the number of mistakes. In the infamous “whirly bird” play, he should have thrown the ball out of bounds instead of attempting the high-risk pass. It’s true that left guard Andrew Norwell’s questionable spin also played a role in the play’s lack of success. That’s why the whole team and not just the rookie passer has to play better.

The Jaguars’ offense ranks at the cellar of the league in lost turnovers with nine. On the other hand, they’ve logged just one, Dewey’s interception against the Cardinals. Don’t expect to win many football games turning the ball over at that rate.

Meanwhile, the Bengals’ defense ranks seventh in points allowed and 11th in forced turnovers with four. On the bright side, they will be without safety Jessie Bates, who is out with a neck injury.  Also, cornerback Chidobe Awuzie is listed as doubtful with a groin injury, so Cincy will not be at full strength.

It may be difficult but the Jags must keep the number of turnovers down. They don’t even have to be turnover-free. Just avoid letting them get out of hand.