The Jacksonville Jaguars haven’t been viewed as a legitimate contender in the AFC South in a long time, but they are hoping to take a big step forward in their rebuilding process this week against the Carolina Panthers. It won’t be easy, as Cam Newton and the Panthers are looking to win the NFC South division title for the second year in a row.
Both teams are very intriguing heading into Week 1, although there are quite different expectations for each team as well.
So with that being said, what should fans expect the final score of the game to be this week?
Newton is without question capable of leading his teams offense despite the injury to star second-year receiver Kelvin Benjamin. De’Angelo Williams also left town, which leaves the Panthers with Jonathan Stewart and Cameron Artis-Payne in the backfield. Despite those issues, the Panthers still have the potential to be a very strong offense with the capability of becoming a lethal unit if Newton figures out his full potential.
Blake Bortles is looking to bounce back with a big second season for the Jaguars after struggling as a rookie. He has a very strong arm and talented young targets this season. Jacksonville’s offense was a disgrace last year, but they are going to take a huge leap forwards this seaosn.
Carolina has one of the more talented defenses in the NFL, while the Jaguars also have a much better defense than many give them credit for. Neither offense is going to have an easy time moving the football.
If the Jaguars want to come away from their season opener with a huge win over a quality football team there are a couple keys that they have to focus on. Taking care of the football is the biggest thing, while keeping Newton in check is the other. Newton is going to be more aggressive with his legs than he has been in his entire career, but the Jaguars’ defense can keep him in the pocket and restrict him to using his thinning weapons.
On the other hand, if the Panthers want to win their season opener, they have to focus on putting pressure on Bortles first and foremost. He made quite a few mistakes when under pressure last season with the Jaguars and the Panthers can force some turnovers by getting to him again this week.
Looking ahead at this Sunday’s game, it is fairly clear which team is the favorite. Carolina is considered to be better than Jacksonville in every single aspect of the game of football and they should come away with a big win to start the season.
Final Score Prediction: Carolina Panthers 28, Jacksonville Jaguars 17
