Jacksonville Jaguars: 3 keys to victory versus Kansas City Chiefs

2. The Jaguars must avoid self-inflicted wounds vs. the Chiefs

Trevor Lawrence played a huge role in the Jags’ comeback win over Los Angeles but he was also a big reason they were trailing 27-0 at one point of the game. Sure, the defense couldn’t stop the Chargers from reaching the end zone but the score would have been more balanced if Lawrence hadn’t thrown four picks to begin with.

As admirable as Lawrence played in the second half last week, he can’t throw so many interceptions against the Chiefs and expect to win. Doug Pederson told the media that he’s made it a huge point of emphasis to the team not to turnover the ball.

“We were very fortunate the other night. That doesn’t happen”, Pederson said. “For five takeaways or five giveaways and come back and win a football game. That just does not happen and that’s something we address our team a lot about. I don’t want to overemphasize it but at the same time, they have to understand the seriousness of keeping the football and the seriousness of creating takeaways”.

It isn’t just takeaways. The Jaguars can’t commit unnecessary penalties. There will always be questionable calls, especially when it comes to roughing the passer and pass interference. However, things such as holding, false start, and delay of the game are avoidable, and Jacksonville can’t commit any of those against the Chiefs.

The Jags had a +3 turnover margin against Kansas City in Week 9 and still managed to lose the game. Having said that, the fewer mistakes they make Saturday, the higher their chances of winning will be. Conversely, shooting themselves in the foot will complicate matters.