AFC South Week 2 power rankings: Jaguars tumble after loss to Dolphins

The AFC South race came to the wire last year, with the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Indianapolis Colts, and the Houston Texans all battling for the top spot. Ultimately, the Texans came out on top but all three clubs were expected to once again compete for the division crown in 2024. So far, it's a one-team contest.

In the season opener, only Houston mustered a win and currently has a one-game lead over their division foes. So how are things shaping up in the AFC South in Week 2? Here's a ranking of all four teams.

4. Tennessee Titans

2024 record: 0-1

Previous ranking: 4

Like the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Tennessee Titans built a robust lead in the first half of Week 1. And like the Jags, Tennessee couldn't finish the job, falling to a young Chicago Bears team led by rookie quarterback Caleb Williams.

There were definitely some bright spots in Titans head coach Brian Callahan's NFL debut. Their defense gave up just 148 total yards. Similarly, The backfield duo of Tony Pollard and Tyjae Spears combined for over 100 rushing yards.

On the other hand, Tennessee needs more from sophomore Will Levis, who went 19-of-32 yards for 127 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions. Their special teams also left much to be desired. They allowed a 67-yard return in the second half and later had a punt blocked.

3. Jacksonville Jaguars

2024 record: 0-1

Previous ranking: 2

No. 3 in the AFC South? You could argue that it's harsh given that Jacksonville played one good half of football in the opener. Then again, there's a reason football games are 60 minutes long. It's not how you start but how you finish and the Jags couldn't get the job done.

Had running back Travis Etienne scored in the third half, he would've put the Miami Dolphins against the ropes, as they would've had trouble recovering from a 17-point deficit. Unfortunately, he fumbled and the Phins wasted no time getting the most out of their opportunity.

All things considered, the Jaguars have the talent to crawl back from the 0-1 hole they dug themselves into. However, they must execute and avoid melting down like they have dating back to 2023. It would also help if Doug Pederson did a better job coaching the offense instead of assigning blame to defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen.

2. Indianapolis Colts

2024 record: 0-1

Previous ranking: 3

The Indianapolis Colts lost to the Houston Texans but there was plenty to like. Anthony Richardson wasn't particularly accurate but showcased his arm strength, throwing a 60-yard bomb to wide receiver Alec Pierce.

Indy's pass rush also showed up in the opener, registering four sacks and 10 quarterback hits. On the other hand, star running back Jonathan Taylor left much to be desired. Expected to bounce back after dealing with injuries in 2023, the former Wisconsin Badger logged just 48 yards in 16 carries.

The Colts' run defense also put no resistance, giving up 159 yards to Joe Mixon, who's enjoying a career revival after spending his whole career with the Cincinnati Bengals. Last year, head coach Shane Steichen did a splendid job keeping the team afloat even after losing Richardson to injury early. It will be interesting to see what he can do with his star quarterback in the fold.

1. Houston Texans

2024 record: 1-0

Previous ranking: 1

The Houston Texans are off to a strong start to the 2024 season, managing to hold off the Colts in Week 1. They were the only week in the AFC South that won in the opener. The victory is especially valuable because it came against Indy. If the division race once again comes to the wire, it could turn out to be a tiebreaker.

C.J. Stroud, for his part, picked up where he left off in 2023, completing 75.0 percent of his passes for 234 yards with two touchdowns. The Texans also got a dazzling performance from running back Joe Mixon. Looking back, acquiring him in exchange for a seventh-round pick looks like a steal. While the Houston defense gave up 27 points, they rattled Anthony Richardson and stymied Jonathan Taylor.

In the end, Houston did what good teams are supposed to do, win a close contest against a division opponent.

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