Jaguars vs. Colts: Calvin Ridley's NFL return, other plotlines to watch in Week 1
• The game will have several subplots, including these 5
4. How much will the Jaguars use Travis Etienne and Tank Bigsby vs. the Colts?
The Jaguars were a pass-heavy team in 2022 but they made an effort to run the ball in the preseason. This doesn't come as a surprise when you consider that they have a dynamic one-two punch in Travis Etienne and rookie Tank Bigsby. Add D'Ernest Johnson, who signed a one-year deal in free agency, and Jacksonville has a well-rounded backfield.
That said, it will be interesting if the Jaguars stick to running the ball against the Colts. While there are many factors that go into calling plays, Doug Pederson has shown an affinity for dialing up passes even when running seems like the better option.
It's true that the Jaguars have a top-10 quarterback in Trevor Lawrence but the last thing the Jags want to do is to put too much on his plate, even if he's capable of handling it.
3. How will the Jaguars offensive line fare against the Colts' defensive front?
The Jaguars are thrusting rookie Anton Harrison into the starting lineup. Having played mostly left tackle at Oklahoma, he'll be playing on the right side for Jacksonville, so it will be interesting to see how he handles the transition. Similarly, Walker Little will be filling in for Cam Robinson while he serves a four-game suspension to start the 2023 season.
This will be a fluid situation that could be affected by performance or injuries, but Little will have a chance to prove he's the long-term answer at left tackle after starting eight games at the position the last two years. It's also worth noting that Ben Bartch is back after spending the offseason recovering from a knee injury he suffered last year.
Early reviews have been positive, and if Bartch picks up where he left off before the injury, he'll bring stability to the interior offensive line.