Jaguars RB James Robinson leaves game, offense scoreless in 1st half

The Jacksonville Jaguars are losing 17-0 to the Seattle Seahawks, and it may be difficult for them to mount a comeback after losing second-year running back James Robinson to an ankle injury.

The Jags’ PR department announced that Robinson is questionable to return with an ankle injury. There wasn’t a particular play that shows he got hurt but Michael DiRocco of ESPN believes it may have happened on a scree pass in which he was shoved out of bounds.

This is a big blow for the Jags, as Robinson is arguably their most valuable player on offense, Trevor Lawrence notwithstanding. Robinson is among the league’s statistical leaders and one of Pro Football Focus’ highest-graded running backs.

Robinson was having a solid game, toting the rock four times for 22 yards. Early in the game, he broke off a 14-yard run, that highlighted his vision and his ability to make cuts. With the sophomore out, veteran Carlos Hyde is carrying the load.

The Jacksonville Jaguars can’t stop the Seahawks from scoring.

Heading into the game, it looked like the Jaguars had a favorable matchup. So far, they’ve looked overmatched even though the Hawks are without Russell Wilson. Geno Smith has stepped up in his absence, scoring on a quarterback sneak and later throwing a 16-yard touchdown pass to touchdown pass to DK Metcalf. Moreover, the 2013 second-round pick has completed every single one of his first ten attempts.

On the days preceding the game, Jaguars cornerback Shaquill Griffin described Smith as elite. Jacksonville’s defense is surely making him look like an upper-echelon quarterback. Also, the Jags have no answer for wide receiver Tyler Lockett.

What makes this even more frustrating is the fact that the Jaguars are coming off their BYE and had plenty of chance to prepare while the Seahawks had a short week after playing the New Orleans Saints on Monday Night Football. Things don’t look encouraging for the Jags ahead of the second half but they can’t throw in the towel just yet.