JACKSONVILLE – In a weekly feature for the 2024 season, NFL Media and Jaguars Media analyst Bucky Brooks breaks down the Jaguars' performance in a 20-13 Week 17 victory over the Tennessee Titans at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville.
BIG IMPRESSION
- The Jaguars put together an impressive 60-minute performance with superb execution in every phase. Though the Titans are a three-win team with plenty of personnel and execution issues, the Jaguars dominated the game from the start behind a strong effort from the offense and defense. Quarterback Mac Jones managed the game effectively, taking the easy throws and avoiding the costly turnover. With the defense playing "bend-but-don't-break" football against the punchless opponent, the Jaguars controlled the game, limited the big plays created through self-inflicted mistakes and forced the Titans to string together long drives to score.
KEYS TO VICTORY
- The Jaguars notched their fourth win of the season by playing a "clean" game without any turnovers and minimal penalties (seven penalties, 50 yards). Against an inferior opponent with limited firepower, the conservative approach enabled the Jaguars to dominate the game from beginning to end. With Jones and rookie wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr., connecting on a handful of explosive plays, the Jaguars mustered enough offense to complement a stellar defensive effort against the Titans.
MAC'S MOMENTS
- The fourth-year pro enjoyed one of his best games with the Jaguars with an efficient performance (15 of 22 passes, 174 yards, two touchdowns) that showcased his growth as a playmaker within the offense. Jones avoided playing "hero ball" by taking easy completions when the defense covered the intermediate and deep routes. By avoiding the high-risk, high-reward throws, he did not turn the ball over and kept the offense on schedule against an opponent that lacked the firepower to turn the game into a shootout. With the Jaguars operating efficiently and effectively against an inferior opponent, Jones was able to lead the team to a win without taking unnecessary gambles.
Here for a good time 🏈 Fans, thanks for showing up for our regular-season finale and our fan appreciation game. Check out top photos throughout the Week 17 matchup. ➡️
UNSUNG HERO
- Wide receiver Parker Washington continues to impress as a key contributor. The second-year pro finished with just 31 yards on three receptions, but came down with a crucial touchdown catch that sparked the offense. Washington's playmaking ability and explosiveness add a dimension to an offense that is brimming with young talent.
OFFENSIVELY SPEAKING
- The Jaguars took care of business against a tough and testy Titans defense. Jones managed the game effectively from the pocket, displaying the efficiency and execution the team expected from a former Pro Bowler. Though the running game could not get untracked against the Titans' stout front line, running back Travis Etienne Jr. and Tank Bigsby displayed toughness and resilience, pounding away on inside runs. Despite the lack of big plays on the ground, the workmanlike effort made it easier for Jones to target Thomas on various complementary plays on the perimeter. With the entire operation clicking at a high level, the Jaguars controlled the game from start to finish.
DEFENSIVELY SPEAKING
- The defense deserves helmet stickers for their collective effort against the Titans. The unit surrendered more yardage than expected, particularly on the ground, but made the necessary plays to keep the Titans out of the end zone. With defensive tackle Maason Smith joining defensive ends Travon Walker and Josh Hines-Allen as disruptors at the point of attack, the Jaguars might have stumbled onto a combination that could form a solid foundation for the future.