The Jacksonville Jaguars ruled out running back Travis Etienne for the Week 11 matchup against the Detroit Lions. However, they have a more than capable replacement in Travis Etienne. Heck, calling the former Clemson Tiger a replacement might be a bit too harsh when you take into account that he was one of the team's most valuable players the past two years.
So why hasn't Etienne been nearly as productive as he's been in the past? Bigsby's ascension in Year 2 has certainly played a role. After an underwhelming rookie campaign, the former Auburn Tiger has bounced back nicely. At one point in 2023, he was averaging 6.2 yards per tote and had more rushing yards than Etienne despite getting fewer carries.
However, Bigsby's seen a decrease in playing time the past few weeks because he's been dealing with an ankle injury, the same that will force him to sit out the Lions game. Meanwhile, Etienne had been dealing with a hamstring injury and missed a couple bouts earlier this season. He's been healthier and is poised for a big workload when the Jags face Detroit.
When asked how the Jaguars could create a spark in the running game, Etienne simply said that he'll get the offense going if they give him the ball.
In order to create a spark: does something in the run game have to change? Should the #Jaguars take the ball first?
— 1010 XL / 92.5 FM (@1010XL) November 14, 2024
Travis Etienne: “just start the game off with a run play and I’ll get us going” 😈
(We agree, @swaggy_t1 🤝) #Jaguars | #DUUUVAL pic.twitter.com/FZQ9Kclsrn
That's the kind of mentality you want from your players, especially in a game where you're a 13-point underdog. With that in mind, here are three bold predictions for the Jaguars in Week 11.
Travis Etienne will get 120+ yards for the Jaguars and 2 TDs in Week 11
Mac Jones was underwhelming against the Minnesota Vikings but the running game wasn't much better. Still, Travis Etienne had a few long runs and finished with 44 yards on 11 carries, not great but not dreadful either. Then again, his production looks more impressive when you take into account that he was still coming back from the hamstring injury.
With Bigsby ruled out for Week 11, Etienne will get the lion's share of the carries and he'll make the most out of them, registering over 120 yards and two touchdowns.
Mac Jones will throw 2 touchdowns no interceptions vs. the Lions
Mac Jones was expected to keep the offense afloat during Trevor Lawrence's absence but instead came crashing down. The former Alabama product looked underwhelming and things will only get tougher against the Detroit Lions.
With Lawrence already being ruled out of the game, Jones will be making his second straight start. Heading into the game, head coach Doug Pederson told the local media that the fourth-year quarterback will be looking for a chance to bounce back... and he'll make the most out of it.
Jones will minimize mistakes and keep the Jaguars in the game. He'll throw two touchdown passes and give his team a chance.
The Jaguars will register 3 interceptions... once again fall short
The Jaguars defense turned heads against the Minnesota Vikings. Apart from preventing them from reaching the end zone, they picked Sam Darnold off three times. Heading into the game, the unit had registered just two interceptions.
After an unremarkable start to the 2024 season, the defense has played much better in recent weeks. Perhaps they're finally gelling, or maybe getting a few players back from injuries has led to improved performance. Regardless of the reason, the unit will once again show out against the Lions.
Unfortunately, it won't be enough to beat the Lions and their losing streak will extend to four games.