Jaguars score twice in second half, build comfortable lead over Titans

Jacksonville Jaguars tight end Evan Engram (17) at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 11, 2022. (Imagm Images photo pool)
Jacksonville Jaguars tight end Evan Engram (17) at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 11, 2022. (Imagm Images photo pool) /
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The Jacksonville Jaguars led the Tennessee 20-14 at halftime and they’ve managed to widen their lead to 36-14 after scoring a couple of touchdown passes and a field goal in the third quarter

Jamal Agnew started the second half with a bang, scoring on a 93-yard kickoff return. However, it was nullified due to a holding penalty linebacker Caleb Johnson drew during the play. Lawrence didn’t dwell too much on the missed and led the Jags on a 12-play, 72-yard drive, which he capped with a one-yard touchdown run.

Lawrence has had a productive outing, going 29-of-40 for 347 yards with three touchdowns, one rushing touchdown, and no interceptions. His availability for the game was in question after hurting his toe against the Detroit Lions the previous week. He was day-to-day on the days preceding the contest and was listed as questionable. However, the former Clemson Tiger has shown no signs of being hurt and doesn’t seem to be limited.

On the Jaguars’ next possession, tight end Evan Engram caught a 21-yard touchdown pass, capping a five-play, 63-yard drive. This is the first time this season the former Ole Miss Rebel has gone over 100 receiving yards. As of this writing, he’s caught a season-high 11 passes for 162 yards.

Wide receiver Zay Jones has also bounced back after having a subpar outing against the Detroit Lions the week before. So far, he’s hauled in eight receptions for 77 yards with one touchdown. In that game, he had three drops and caught just three passes for 16 yards on seven targets.

The Jaguars have a good chance to beat the Titans in Week 14

The defense has also helped the Jags build a lead. Back in the first half, the unit forced three takeaways. First, outside linebacker Travon Walker forced a fumble that defensive end Dawuane Smoot recovered. Safety Andre Wingard, subbing for Andre Cisco, then snagged an interception. And near the end of the second quarter, linebacker Shaquille Quarterman forced a fumble that outside linebacker Josh Allen scooped.

The Jags have taken advantage of all the injuries the Titans are dealing with. Before the game, they ruled out cornerback Kristian Futon, wide receiver Treylon Burks, defensive lineman Denico Autry, linebacker David Long Jr. wide receiver Tre Avery and cornerback Tre Avery.

Also, Jacksonville has at last managed to contain running back Derrick Henry. After toting the rock 13 times for 18 yards in the first half, he’s only had two yards on two carries in the second half. On Henry’s third carry, defensive end Arden Key forced him to fumble and the Jags recovered.

The Jaguars are close to beating the Titans. To seal the deal, they must avoid turning the ball over and stop Tennesse from scoring, if they do, they’ll win their fifth game of the season.

Hot. GM Trent Baalke will likely be given plenty of time to implement vision. light