Because the Jacksonville Jaguars put together to play the Houston Texans in Week 13, we sat down with Scott Barzilla of Battle Purple Weblog to be taught extra in regards to the opposing aspect.
Query 1: C.J. Stroud at the moment ranks 14th in passing yards per recreation after ending first within the class to win 2023 Offensive Rookie of the Yr. Does he deserve criticism for this underwhelming sophomore season, or is Houston’s offensive points extra so associated to play calling, go blocking and participant well being?
Actually, it’s a mix of all of these as these items often are. The blocking has been a lot worse and the playcalling has been worse (extra on that under). Nevertheless, he can’t get out of this dialog unscathed. He has had some accuracy points that weren’t there final 12 months and a few questionable selections. A few of that’s the fixed stress however some isn’t.
Query 2: Related query for offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik — he was extensively thought of future head coach materials for his work with Stroud final 12 months. Is it untimely to say that 2023 was a fugazi, or are there actual systemic points in Slowik’s offense?
The Texans routinely rating on their first drive of the sport. They battle after that. This tells us that Slowik has nothing to counter with when defenses work out what he’s doing. His play calling within the pink zone has been weird at instances. I’m unsure if he will likely be fired however most followers wouldn’t be upset if he moved on.
Query 3: In the event you have been gameplanning in opposition to DeMeco Ryans’ protection, what could be your first precedence?
Efficiently working the ball is essential. In the event you can maintain that line of defense trustworthy then you possibly can beat them deep occasionally. The Titans had bother with the stress however have been in a position to do sufficient with huge performs due to the working recreation.
Query 4: Who’s an under-the-radar participant (or gamers) that Jaguars followers ought to regulate on this recreation?
On offense, Tank Dell feels prepared to interrupt out and Cade Stover has been good for a number of catches as nicely. He scored his first landing this week. On protection, Kamari Lassiter and Calen Bullock have been large in takeaways. The Texans flip over groups greater than anybody and they’re a key cause why.
Query 5: The Jaguars are 5.5-point underdogs this week based on FanDuel Sportsbook. Do you anticipate the Texans to cowl, and do you may have a favourite participant prop for the sport?
I feel the Texans win a detailed recreation however I can’t choose them to cowl. One thing like 28-24 feels proper. I feel a Joe Mixon anytime landing looks like a protected wager today.
Because of Scott for taking the time to reply our questions!
What are your ideas on the Week 13 matchup, Jaguars followers? Tell us within the feedback!