Scout's Take: Bucky Brooks Examines Panthers-Jaguars

Jan 04, 2024 at 10:20 AM

Bucky Brooks

Jaguars Analyst

JACKSONVILLE – In a weekly feature for the 2023 season, NFL Media and Jaguars Media analyst Bucky Brooks breaks down the Jaguars' performance in a 26-0 victory over the Carolina Panthers at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville Sunday

BIG IMPRESSION

The Panthers provided the Jaguars with a much-needed "get right" game at a pivotal point in the season. Entering the game on a four-game losing streak, the Jaguars regained some confidence, earning a win while playing a relatively "clean" game in Week 17. The Jaguars did not turn the ball over and committed just one penalty against the Panthers after routinely giving away games with self-inflicted errors. By eliminating the controllable errors, the Jaguars chalked up a win by doing the simple things better. If the Jaguars continue to take care of the ball, tackle well in space and eliminate big plays on defense, they have enough talent to win against any of the teams in the playoff field.

KEYS TO VICTORY

The Jaguars dominated the Panthers from beginning to end with the offense, defense and special teams excelling against an overmatched squad. Kicker Brandon McManus set the tone with a perfect day (four-of-four on field goal attempts with a pair of extra-point conversions) that ended his recent slump as a long-range kicker. Outside linebackers Josh Allen and Travon Walker keyed a suffocating defensive effort with five combined sacks and six quarterback hits. With rookie safety Antonio Johnson adding an interception, the defense shut down a Panthers' offense led by overwhelmed rookie quarterback Bryce Young. Offensively, the Jaguars' commitment to the running game (35 rush attempts, 155 rush yards, two touchdowns) helped the unit get back on track with backup quarterback C.J. Beathard under center. As running back Travis Etienne Jr. posted a 100-yard game on an assortment of off-tackle runs, the Jaguars were able to utilize a balanced attack to control the game. The Jaguars waltzed to a win with relative ease with the running game humming.

CJ'S TIME

The veteran effectively managed the game against the Panthers without making an egregious error that changed the game's momentum. Beathard completed 17 of 24 passes for 178 yards without a touchdown or interception. He connected with seven different receivers, challenging the Panthers to defend every blade of grass. With the veteran playing an efficient game of "pitch-and-catch" without putting the ball in harm's way, the Jaguars cruised to a win behind the effective play of their QB2.

UNSUNG HERO

Tight end Evan Engram continues to steady the Jaguars' passing game with his consistent production as the No. 1 option. The one-time Pro Bowler finished with 60 yards on six catches, pushing his season totals to 104 and 884 yards. As Engram continues flourishing as the "go-to-guy" in the passing game, the Jaguars' aerial attack shows explosive potential down the stretch.

OFFENSIVELY SPEAKING

Credit Jaguars offensive coordinator Press Taylor for attacking the Panthers with a basic game plan that enabled the Jaguars to play fast with flawless execution. The offense finished without a turnover and just a single penalty while totaling 300-plus yards, utilizing a balanced attack that kept the Panthers' defense on its heels. Though the effort lacked the pizzazz and sizzle many expected heading into the season, the Jaguars played complementary football behind an efficient offense that avoided the self-inflicted mistakes that have plagued the unit for most of the season.

DEFENSIVELY SPEAKING

The defense pitched a shutout against the Panthers, showing outstanding discipline in attacking an overwhelmed rookie quarterback. Defensive coordinator Mike Caldwell relentlessly pressured Young with various creative pressures that kept the rookie on the run. With the Jaguars clogging up running lanes to force the Panthers into a one-dimensional approach, Young eventually wilted under the constant pressure and harassment from a shutout-obsessed unit.