The Jacksonville Jaguars would appear to have started their game against the Cincinnati Bengals well; the score going into the second half was 17-10, and the Jaguars defense was able to keep the Cincinnati offense from doing much.
Joe Burrow was sacked repeatedly, and eventually, had to leave with a left toe injury. The Bengals were held to one touchdown, with the Jaguars defense remaining aggressive throughout the half. For the offense, there were a few shining moments, too.
Dyami Brown began making plays right away, and Bhayshul Tuten proved that Jacksonville doesn't need Tank Bigsby. Yet even as quarterback Trevor Lawrence reached a new milestone, his play was erratic enough that it rings hollow.
Trevor Lawrence struggles, despite joining exclusive group
According to JaguarsPR, before the first half was over, Lawrence surpassed 14,000 career passing yards, a feat only accomplished by Mark Brunell, David Garrard, and Blake Bortles.
. @Trevorlawrencee has reached 14,000 career passing yards in today's game. He is one of just four quarterbacks in franchise history to achieve the feat (Mark Brunell, Blake Bortles and David Garrard).
— JaguarsPR (@JaguarsPR) September 14, 2025
However, that will not mean much considering how poorly the offense played so far. Yes, the Jaguars was leading, but it was almost in spite of the offense, rather than because of them. Lawrence threw several interceptions, had several other poor attempted passes, and in general, didn't seem to be his normal, confident self.
Then there were the penalties; the Jaguars had not one, not two, not three, but five illegal shift penalties. Any momentum the Jags might have had, it was stopped short over and over again with dumb decisions and pointless penalties.
There are certainly some issues surrounding this offense, and to be fair, Lawrence has had to learn multiple offensive schemes, with non-stop coaching turnover. It's not much of a surprise that he has not been able to be at his best the past few years.
But this was also supposed to be Lawrence's comeback year, the season he proved that the Jaguars' faith in him has not been misplaced. Lawrence has talent and potential - no one doubt that - but the offense has been taking every opportunity handed to them during this Bengals game and throwing it away.
Yes, it's a lot to learn new offensive schemes, and it takes time to settle in. But this many penalties and turnovers and miscommunications? It's unacceptable. The Jaguars have even more of a golden opportunity with Burrow seemingly out for the game, and they're just wasting it.
Trevor Lawrence could still end up the franchise quarterback Jaguars fans have been waiting for, and it's always nice to reach a new career milestone. But the way he - and the offense - have been playing today, this accomplishment doesn't feel like much to celebrate.