Jaguars struggle to get anything going on offense vs. Commanders

It’s still early but the Jacksonville Jaguars don’t have much to show for all the moves they made in the offseason. They’re losing 14-3 to the Washington Commanders after two quarters of Week 1 action.

What was dubbed the Jags’ biggest weakness ahead of the 2022 season was at full display throughout the first half of the game. The Commanders’ defensive line constantly rattled Trevor Lawrence and often forced him to throw under pressure. The sophomore quarterback went 12-of-24 for 131 yards.

The Jags’ first drive of the game wasn’t necessarily bad. They moved the ball without much trouble but it then stall and they had the settle for a field goal. They couldn’t get much going in the next two and punted both times.

Then the offense came to life late in the second quarter. Etienne broke off a 12-yard run and also caught a pass that went for 23 yards. But once the Jags got to Washington’s end zone, they weren’t able to get the ball even though they went for it on fourth-down.

Fortunately, they got the ball back one last time before halftime when Commanders wide receiver Curtis Samuel fumbled. Unfortunately, they once failed to do much with the opportunity and finished the first half with a measly three points.

The  Jaguars offense had a hard time stopping Carson Wentz

After losing to the Jags in the 2021 season finale, Carson Wentz became somewhat of a meme. However, he reminded everyone he can play well when given the chance. The Commanders quarterback went 16-of-22 for 171 with two touchdowns in the first half. The Jaguars’ defensive front couldn’t get him and he had plenty of time to find his receivers.

Although Samuel fumbled late in the second quarter, he was Wentz’s favored receiver, hauling in six receptions for 49 yards and one touchdown. Rookie receiver Jahan Dotson caught Wentz’s other passing touchdown.

The Jags’ defense has done a good job of containing Antonio Gibson, who has toted the rock five times for 18 yards. Terry McLaurin has also been limited to one catch for nine yards but that isn’t of much help when the Jags don’t have answers for Samuel and Wentz.

If Jacksonville wants to get back to the game, their defense will need to get to Wentz and the offense will need to score.