Jaclsonville Jaguars (3-6) – Las Vegas Raiders (2-6): 27-20
While Las Vegas took a 17-point lead early in the game, it was Jacksonville who won this dunces game with an inescapable comeback minute after minute for two and a half quarters.
This return was possible thanks to two men, two former Clemson tigers: quarterback Trevor Lawrence (25/31, 235 yards, 1 TD, 53 yards on the ground) and runner Travis Etienne (126 yards, 2 TD). The two youngsters carried a united and courageous team, well helped by a defense which increased in speed throughout the match. Dawuane Smoot is the defensive MVP with 2 sacks in particular.
Impressive early in the game, Derek Carr (266 yards, 2 TD) disappeared after 20 minutes, as did Davante Adams (146 yards, 2 TD). Josh McDaniels lost track of the game, failing to fit the running game into the game plan (66 yards) and seemingly losing his ranged duel against Doug Pederson week after week.
With this victory Jacksonville can still dream (a little) of the playoffs, while the crisis is brewing in Las Vegas.
Davante Adams in demonstration
In a first half generally dominated by the Raiders, one man stood out: Davante Adams. Helped by a patient and well-protected Derek Carr, the former Packers multiplied receptions before scoring not one but two touchdowns. 17 to 0 in 20 minutes, the start of the match is a demonstration.
Yes, but Jacksonville is not giving up. Trevor Lawrence finds rhythm, and the attack alternates with the ground and the airs. Travis Etienne and Christian Kirk fill the role of lieutenant, and Doug Pederson’s men begin a comeback. First by a touchdown from Etienne to reduce the gap (7-17).
The awakening of the Jaguar
At the start of the second half, the Jaguars confirm. With a drive while in control, Laxrence finds Kirk for the touchdown (17-20). Jacksonville is confident as the Raiders’ offense fades.
The recipe is simple, and it works. On the next drive, Jacksonville continues its undermining work, before concluding once again with the inevitable Etienne. For the first time in the match, Jacksonville is in front (24-20).
As often in the NFL, it’s when you think it’s over that the match hangs by a thread. Jacksonville has the opportunity to consolidate the lead with a field goal, which hits the post before coming out. New opportunity for the Raiders, but Derek Carr has been missing since the middle of the second quarter.
It is therefore logical that the Jaguars will complete the victory with a field goal then an interception by Devin Lloyd on a last chance action. Victory for Jacksonville which maintains a slim hope, while the Raiders sink into the crisis.
