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

3. The Jaguars’ defense needs to pressure quarterback Matt Ryan.

Head coach Urban Meyer told the local media Shaquill Griffin will sit out Sunday. The 2017 third-round pick has done a good job of traveling with other teams’ number one wide receiver. He will be missed even though quarterback Matt Ryan doesn’t have other offensive weapons besides Kyle Pitts.

On the other hand, the Jaguars don’t have any major injuries up front and should be able to consistently pressure Ryan. The Falcons are giving up an average of two sacks per game and Jacksonville should be able to get as many if not more in Week 12.

Edge rusher Josh Allen has been Jacksonville’s defensive MVP this season but Dawuane Smoot has also gotten to the quarterback often. Taven Bryan, Malcom Brown, DaVon Hamilton, and Roy Robertson-Harris have also done a good job in the interior. Moreover, linebacker Myles Jack and Dakota Allen will be a full-go after being limited in practice early this week.

On the other hand, offensive coordinator Joe Cullen’s office must play disciplined and avoid racking up penalties. Against the San Francisco 49ers, the Jags’ defense was flagged four times. If they can correct that in Week 12, their chances of winning will go up.