Jacksonville Jaguars: 3 keys to victory versus Kansas City Chiefs

1. The Jaguars O-Line must protect Trevor Lawrence and stop Chris Jones

The Jaguars’ offensive line has done a good job of protecting Trevor Lawrence this season. They allowed a manageable 27 times in 2022 and their six games without a sack led the league. Now, they will be tasked with stopping Chris Jones and the rest of the Chiefs’ defensive front.

Pederson met with the local media Tuesday and talked about how much of a hassle it can be to contain Jones.

“He’s had a great season,” Pederson said. “This guy is probably one of the best, if not the best we’ve seen this season and we’ve played some good ones. “He’s interior D-Lineman and he’s explosive, he’s powerful. He can move guys off spots, rush the passer”.

“There’s not a whole can’t do and we’ve got to understand where he is”.Teams try to put as many hands on him as possible and he still gets there”, Pederson said.

Jones had a monster season in 2022, making 17 starts and registering 15.5 sacks, 44 total tackles, 17 tackles for a loss, two forced fumbles, and even four passes defensed. Moreover, he made the Pro Bowl and earned a First-Team All-Pro designation. Even when Jones doesn’t get to the quarterback, his presence allows his teammates to create pressure and make plays.

Back in Week 9, Jones logged 1.5 sacks, two total tackles, and one tackle for a loss. If the Jags can slow him down, they will make it considerably easier for Lawrence and the offense to move the ball.