Jaguars in control of the AFC South: 3 reasons Jacksonville will win the division

No. 2 reason the Jaguars will win the AFC South: 2nd Year of the Doug Pederson era

Despite the fact that Doug Pederson had taken the Philadelphia Eagles to the Super Bowl, expectations were tempered in his first season with the Jaguars. After all, they were coming of the disastrous Urban Meyer era and hadn't won more than six games in a season since 2008. Simply, it was going to take time for Pederson to turn things around and he said as much when he accepted the job.

The fact that the Jags won only three games in the first nine weeks helped solidify the notion that they were going to have yet another losing season. But then, something clicked. Jacksonville hit their stride and won six of their last eight games to sneak into the playoffs and win the division crown.

Throughout the winning streak, Pederson kept his team focused and it paid off. Having undergone a culture shift under Doug P, the Jags should get off to a hot start in 2023. In the same manner, the offense should be in full gear right off the bat.

Most skilled position players, including Trevor Lawrence, are entering their second season in the same offensive system. This familiarity should lead to better execution and overall success. The arrival of Calvin Ridley, the true No. 1 receiver they were missing last year, should most definitely help.

The same is true for the defense. Coordinator Mike Caldwell is in his second season calling the shots. With one year of experience under his belt, his unit should operate more efficiently. If they can find someone to round out their pass rush rotation, opposing offenses may have trouble moving the ball.