3 things to keep an eye on when the Jaguars play the Lions in Preseason Week 2

There isn't an inherent right or wrong approach to the preseason. Some clubs like to give extended playing time to their starters to shake off the rust and work on things such as timing. Others like to hold them back and rest them for the regular season. Heading into Week 2, the Detroit Lions have announced they'll sit their starters (and many of their rookies). On the other hand, the Jacksonville Jaguars haven't made a decision as of this writing.

The Jags already ruled out defensive tackle Folorunso Fatukasi, defensive back Antonio Johnson and outside linebacker Josh Wells. However, head coach Doug Pederson hasn't made an announcement in regard to the starters and how many snaps they'll get against the Lions.

Keep in mind that teams often rest most of their starters in the preseason finale and use the game to evaluate the roster. With this in mind, here are three things to watch when the Jaguars face off against Detroit.

How much playing time will Jaguars RT Anton Harrison get vs. the Lions?

Anton Harrison, a first-round pick in this year's draft, is making the transition from left tackle to the right side and is expected to start on Day 1. This is why the more reps he get ahead of the regular season but faster he will get acclimated to his new position.

So far, Harrison's transition to right tackle is coming well. He had a pretty encouraging out in Week 1 and made headlines when he managed to contain sophomore defensive end Aidan Hutchinson in joint practice this week.

The issue is that Harrison has been dealing with a shoulder injury for the last few days. Although he's managed to play through the injury, it's currently unknown whether he will play Saturday. If he's good enough to go, the coaching staff must then monitor him closely, so he doesn't aggravate the injury.

How will the Jaguars pass rush do vs. The Lions' offensive line?

The regular season is around the corner and the pass rush remains the Jaguars' biggest question mark. Granted, they have a promising tandem in outside linebacker Josh Allen and Travon Walker. However, they don't have much depth behind him. Although they re-signed defensive end Dawuane Smoot, he's still recovering from the Achilles tear he suffered last year. He's currently on the Physically Unable to Perform list and might need a bit more of time before he can be counted on.

Outside linebacker K'Lavon Chaisson entered training camp as the No. 3 pass rusher in the rotation but he has been unremarkable. Against the Cowboys, he was unspectacular and if he doesn't show out in Week 2, he could be at risk of tumbling down the depth chart.

Meanwhile, rookie Yasir Abdullah flashed in his preseason debut, totaling three tackles and one sack against Dallas. If he can build on last year's performance against the Lions, he could get ahead of Chaisson on the depth chart.

Also, third-year outside linebacker Jordan Smith could be battling for a roster spot. This game could end up being a huge factor on whether he hangs around or gets the pink slip before the start of the 2023 season.

As noted before, the Lions will sit their starters, so the Jaguars' defense will face their second and third-team offensive line. This could be a prime opportunity for the Jacksonville pass rush to make an impression.

Which Jaguars wide receiver will show out vs. the Lions

It's no secret that most of the Jaguars' receivers depth chart is already set. In no particular order, Christian Kirk, Calvin Ridley, Zay Jones and Jamal Agnew are all locks to make the team. On the other hand, there will be several receivers competing for one or maybe two open spots, which means a handful of them will be victims of the numbers game.

Parker Washington, Elijah Cooks, Jacob Harris, Seth Williams, Kevin Austin Jr., Kendric Pryor and Tim Jones are all trying to get the nod. Harris, Williams and Cooks all made plays against the Cowboys. In particular, Harris caught a 42-yard touchdown pass that set the Jaguars' second touchdown of the game while Williams and Cooks reeled in receptions of 15 and 32 yards, respectively.

Conversely, Austin failed to make the most of his chances, registering no catches on three targets. The good news for Austin and everyone else vying for a roster spot still have two week to make their case.

Receivers coach Chad Hall previously praise Washington, a sixth-round pick in this year's draft, for his tools and his ability to create plays after the catch. That said, he might be limited to the slot and the team's brass might choose someone that can line up inside and outside. While he seems to have the inside track to earn a roster spot, he hasn't yet secured it. Week 2 will give him a chance.

The truth is that the Jaguars are stacked at wide receiver, and they'll have to make some tough decision at the position. This is why it's imperative for everyone to make a positive impression against the Lions.

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