Jaguars RB James Robinson avoids injury scare vs. Texans

James Robinson is one of the Jacksonville Jaguars’ best players, so they were probably relieved when their star running back avoided major injury and is playing in the second half of the Week 15 game against the Houston Texans. The Jags are trailing 20-10.

Late in the second quarter, Robinson was tackled, which is common when you play in the NFL. However, he had trouble getting up and the trainers had to come on the field and check him. Fortunately, he got up on his own power and was seen on the sidelines still wearing his helmet, which was a sign the injury wasn’t a serious one.

The Jaguars will need t get Robinson rolling in the second half if they want to win the game. Backup running back Dare Ogunbowale mishandled the handoff following Robinson’s injury. The Illinois State product made the most of his carries in the first half, toting the rock 12 times for 56 yards and one touchdown. His touchdown run included a cameo of a fan in the end zone.

The Jaguars must avoid mistakes if they want to beat the Texans.

This game would be close had the Jags not committed self-inflicted wounds. They forced Houston to go three-and-out in their first possession of the matchup but a penalty by defensive lineman Adam Gotsis gave the Texans a fresh set of downs, which they then use to travel the field and score on a 22-yard touchdown reception by wide receiver Brandin Cooks. Later in the first quarter, the Jaguars’ special teams allowed a 98-yard touchdown return by Tremon Smith.

The Jaguars’ defense must do a better job of pressuring Texans quarterback Davis Mills. They’ve sacked him once but have often given him plenty of time to throw the ball. Also, forcing one or two turnovers would help. Trevor Lawrence is 7-o-11 for 94 yards with no touchdowns and no interceptions.

There’s still plenty of time left for the Jaguars to turn things around. Having Robinson on the field would help but they must play mistake-free football in the second half.