3 keys for the Jaguars to beating the Chargers in the 2022 NFL Playoffs

1. The Jaguars’ offense must avoid a slow start vs. the Chargers

Not long ago, head coach Doug Pederson told the media that it doesn’t matter whether they start hot or slow as long as they win the game but there’s no denying that a strong start puts you in a better position to win.

Although Jacksonville put on display the ability to come back from behind in 2022, their defense has had to bail them out at the last minute on a few occasions. The wins over the Dallas Cowboys and more recently the Tennessee Titans come to mind.

On the other hand, the Jags proved they could build a comfortable lead this past season. They did it against the Chargers in their Week 3 encounter and also against both the Indianapolis Colts (Week 2) and the Houston Texans (Week 17).

Trevor Lawrence showed he can deliver in the clutch when the Jags beat the Ravens, it would be better if they can get ahead on the scoreboard early in the game. They should dial a few deep shots early to test the Chargers’ secondary. This would in turn lighten the box for Travis Etienne.

The downside of going pass-heavy early in the contest is that the Jags could go three and out or fail to put points on the scoreboard if they fail. Then again, Jacksonville can’t afford to be conservative and run the risk of falling behind. They could come back like they did against the Titans but it would be better if they can take away the Bolts early.