Jaguars vs Browns: 3 encouraging stats from preseason loss

The Jacksonville Jaguars played most of their starters against the Cleveland Browns one week after sitting a good chunk of them in the Hall-of-Fame game. Although they lost 24-13, both the offense and the defense made a few plays worthy of a highlight reel.

Sure, the Jags would have probably liked to come out of the game with a win but there were several things that stood out. Without further ado, here are three encouraging stats from the preseason Week 1 loss to the Browns.

3. Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence nearly averaged 8.0 yards per attempt

Trevor Lawrence showed flashes in his rookie sheet but his numbers weren’t the ones of a top NFL quarterback. Not only did he lead the league in interceptions with 17 but he also averaged a measly 6.0 yards per attempt. There wasn’t a system in place that maximized his strengths nor a good supporting cast. However, the former Clemson Tiger showed in his preseason debut what he can do when he’s put in a position to succeed.

Right off the bat, Lawrence connected with wide receiver Zay Jones for a 32-yard gain in Jacksonville’s first offensive drive. Not long after, he showed his wheels, moving the chains with an 11-yard run.

Lawrence only completed just 50 percent of his passes but he averaged 7.9 yards per attempt, nearly two more yards than last year. Having a better wide receiver corps certainly helps but the sophomore signal-caller has also gotten better.

Earlier this year, head coach Doug Pederson said that he was starting over with Lawrence, helping him hone his mechanics. It looks like it’s paying off.