3 keys to victory for Jaguars vs. Falcons in Week 12

A fan of the Jacksonville Jaguars at TIAA Bank Field (Imagn Images photo pool)
A fan of the Jacksonville Jaguars at TIAA Bank Field (Imagn Images photo pool) /
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Jacksonville Jaguars
Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /

The Jacksonville Jaguars proved in Week 9 that they can keep up with the best when they beat the Buffalo Bills. On the other hand, they’ve also shown they’ve still got a long way to go before they turn the corner, losing their last two games.

The Jags will have the chance to get back to the win column when they take on the Atlanta Falcons. While the Jags have struggled to put points on the scoreboard in recent weeks, their defense has performed well. Meanwhile, the Falcons aren’t doing great themselves and are coming off two straight losses.

Also, Atlanta has managed to score just 30 points over the last three weeks and has allowed 93 in the same span. On paper, this looks like a favorable matchup for the Jags, and here are three keys to victory in Week 12.

1. The Jaguars can’t let Kyle Pitts take over the game in Week 12.

The Falcons rank 27th in points scored this season and one big reason is their lack of playmakers. Wide receiver Cordarelle Patterson is listed as questionable ahead of the game. If he doesn’t suit up, tight end Kyle Pitts will be Matt Ryan’s only reliable target.

Pitts has quickly established himself as Atlanta’s top target, hauling in 43 receptions for 653 yards and one touchdown. Furthermore, he’s averaging an outstanding 14.8 yards per catch, which is pretty rare for a tight end.

The Florida product should have no trouble torching the Jags’ secondary if given the chance. Thus, he must be accounted for in every single play.