Jacksonville Jaguars: Defense locked down victory against Bills
By Larry Brake
The Jacksonville Jaguars defeated the Buffalo Bills to advance into the next round of the NFL Playoffs, and the defense was key to getting the win.
The Jacksonville Jaguars ferocious defense was the key to winning Sunday’s Wild Card Round game against the Buffalo Bills. Blake Bortles and the offense were unable to find any rhythm due to a stingy Bills defensive unit. In old school fashion, the Jaguars defense sealed the victory late in the fourth quarter.
Paul “Bear” Bryant once made a statement comparing offense and defense, saying that offense sells tickets, but it’s defense that wins championships.
Bortles did not have a good game throwing the ball against the Bills. However, he utilized his legs to guide Jacksonville in their two scoring drives. He rushed for 88 yards on 10 carries. Perhaps his best run of the day was picking up a first down after fumbling the snap from center.
On offense, the Jaguars threw for 75 yards and ran for 155 yards. Jacksonville could only convert twice on third down in twelve attempts. Josh Lambo kicked a 44 yard field goal in the second quarter to tie the game at 3-3. The lone Jaguars touchdown was on fourth and one as Bortles hit Ben Koyack with the pass.
The Bills took an early lead 3-0. Buffalo was aided on that drive by costly penalties. Then, Jacksonville’s defense took control of the game.
Telvin Smith made 11 tackles while nine of them were solo tackles. He held LeSean McCoy to only 44 yards on passes out of the backfield. He is part of the reason that the Jaguars shut down the Bills offense.
The Jaguars pressured the Buffalo quarterback throughout the game. Calais Campbell hit him four times and just missed getting sacks. Both Malik Jackson and Myles Jack recorded a sack. Seems like Tyrod Taylor was constantly running away from the Jacksonville pass rush. Aaron Colvin tipped a pass to himself for the first Jaguars interception. He is an integral part of the Jaguars secondary. He is given the assignment to cover the opponents slot receiver.
Next: 2018 NFL Playoffs: Picks, predictions for Divisional Round
Jalen Ramsey sealed the victory with his interception. The game officials took another look just to see if Ramsey intercepted it. The review confirmed the pick and Jacksonville lined up in victory formation.
If Bryant is correct concerning defense, then there is much hope for this young group of Jaguars. There is a bright future and good chances to win championships. They won the AFC South championship, and maybe there is more to follow. On to Pittsburgh!