The Jacksonville Jaguars, with a current record of 8-6, find themselves in the midst of a three-game losing streak. This challenging period is compounded by concerns about quarterback Trevor Lawrence’s concussion, which initially suggested he might miss the upcoming Week 16 game for the Jaguars.
Nevertheless, the starting quarterback, a consistent presence since his NFL draft in 2021, received positive news just before the critical game, offering a ray of hope for the team’s playoff aspirations.
Trevor Lawrence is ready to face Bucs after clearing concussion protocol
Trevor Lawrence has successfully cleared the NFL’s concussion protocol, ensuring his availability for the upcoming clash against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The 24-year-old signal-caller was initially listed as questionable for the Sunday matchup due to a head injury sustained in the Week 15 encounter with the Baltimore Ravens.
Coach Doug Pederson had expressed the team’s cautious approach, detailing that Lawrence’s participation hinged on his clearance from the concussion protocol. Before the confirmation of Lawrence’s clearance, Pederson had stated that if the quarterback hadn’t cleared the protocol by the team’s departure for Tampa, backup C.J. Beathard would start.
“Most guys, if you don’t clear, usually by Friday, then you can’t risk putting a guy on the field this close to game time. That’s any player, so just take the position out of it. But he is trending in the right direction.”
Lawrence, who reported concussion-like symptoms after the Ravens game, practiced on a limited basis on Friday after entering a concussion protocol. It marked his first on-field appearance during the week.
The team head coach revealed that the concussion occurred during a scramble up the middle in the Jaguars’ 23-7 loss to Baltimore. Despite completing the game, Lawrence faced challenges in his passing attempts after the incident.
This season, Lawrence had previously battled a sprained left knee and a high ankle sprain, where his team received backlash for not using a cart to bring his to the sidelines. Yet he managed to start each subsequent game, showcasing his determination and durability.
Despite playing through compromised states in the last two games, Lawrence’s upcoming start against the Buccaneers will mark his 49th consecutive start. This streak places him in elite company, tied with Patrick Mahomes for the second-longest active streak among quarterbacks, with only Josh Allen boasting a longer streak at 85 consecutive starts.
Ravens punch playoff ticket with win against Jaguars
The Baltimore Ravens secured their spot in the AFC playoffs with a decisive 23-7 victory against the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 15. Lamar Jackson’s performance, featuring a touchdown pass to Isaiah Likely and 97 rushing yards, propelled the Ravens to their second consecutive postseason appearance and their fourth since 2019.
Entering the game, the Ravens needed a win to formally clinch a playoff berth, a goal that materialized thanks to defeats suffered by the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Denver Broncos on the preceding Saturday. The Ravens capitalized on the opportunity, shutting down Trevor Lawrence’s team, which extended their losing streak.
The Ravens’ defense played a starring role, holding the Jaguars to just seven points and capitalizing on Lawrence’s struggles with two fumble losses. Despite Jacksonville’s attempts to rally, including a touchdown pass caught by Jamal Agnew, the Ravens maintained control.
Baltimore’s rushing attack dominated the contest, amassing an impressive 251 rushing yards with a 6.0 yards-per-rush average. Lamar Jackson’s dual-threat ability was on full display, and it solidified his impact as a key playmaker for the Ravens and MVP of this season.
With a 10-0 lead at halftime, the Jaguars faced a game of missed opportunities, failing to convert on several chances in the first half, including two missed field goals by Brandon McManus. Despite a late touchdown, the Jaguars couldn’t mount a comeback, falling into a tie for the AFC South lead with the Indianapolis Colts and Houston Texans.
In contrast, the Ravens now stand with an 11-3 record, leading the AFC North and positioning themselves favorably for the No. 1 seed in the AFC.
Do you think the Jaguars can bounce back with a stunning performance in Week 16?
