Jaguars beat Titans, win AFC South: 3 observations from Week 18

The Jaguars defense and special teams came through vs. the Titans

The Jaguars’ offense had eight possessions — nine if you count the one they had after they had secured the win. Yet, they only managed to score 13 points. While Trevor Lawrence missed a few throws, you’ve got to hand it to the Titans’ defense for stymying the Jags’ running game and applying pressure on a consistent basis.

Lawrence finished the game with a 62.50 completion rate and 212 yards with one touchdown while running back Travis Etienne was limited to 17 yards on seven. So on a day in which the Jacksonville offense struggled to put points on the scoreboard, the defense came through. In particular, the front seven played a big role in the win, registering 29 total pressures, four sacks, and two forced fumbles.

Defensive end Arden Key made his presence felt, registering a career-high nine total pressures. Linebacker Foyesade Oluokun, defensive end Roy Robertson-Harris and Josh Allen all register sacks. Corey Peters and Adam Gotsis were also credited with half a sack each. On top of that, Allen sealed the deal with his fumble recovery for a touchdown.

The Titans were leading 13-7 at the beginning of the second quarter but the Jags held them to three points in the second quarter. Also of note, Derrick Henry tallied 109 yards but averaged just 3.6 yards per carry.

This is even more impressive when you take into account that the Jacksonville defense struggled to slow down opposing defenses at the midpoint of the season but has allowed a combined 22 points over the last three weeks.