Fansided

Jaguars believe Nick Foles can restore competitive chances

By David Levin

JACKSONVILLE, FL - NOVEMBER 18: Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Jalen Ramsey (20) during the first half of an NFL game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars on November 18, 2018, at TIAA Bank Field. (Photo by Roy K. Miller/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
JACKSONVILLE, FL - NOVEMBER 18: Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Jalen Ramsey (20) during the first half of an NFL game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars on November 18, 2018, at TIAA Bank Field. (Photo by Roy K. Miller/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /
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After finishing in last place of the AFC South a year ago, the Jacksonville Jaguars hop Nick Foles can put them back in the playoffs.

Best-case scenario

The Jaguars come out firing on all cylinders the first game of the season against the Kansas City Chiefs. The offense, which has been revamped by new coordinator John DeFilippo, becomes a respectable passing attack. Nick Foles fits in nicely as Jacksonville’s new quarterback and Leonard Fournette becomes one of the more complete running backs in the NFL.

The most important part of the Jaguars this season will be the continuity of the offensive line. For once this unit remains healthy and helps both the running and passing games function.

Worst-case scenario

Foles and his receivers fall into the abyss. Much was made about the Jaguars changing their quarterback to have a contending team. After signing a four-year, $88 million this off-season, Foles is nothing more than a really good backup. Once again injuries set this team back, as head coach Doug Marrone was afraid of.

Management isn’t happy with the start of the season and make changes after Week 4. Senior defensive assistant Dom Capers is named interim head coach for the remainder of the year. And because of the slow start to the season, Jalen Ramsey once again opens his mouth and talks about a new contract deal. The locker room implodes.

Confidence level (Low, medium or high)

Medium.

This can swing either way. Foles is likely worth at least three more wins. The Jaguars lost six games last season by six points or less, which says things weren’t as terrible as everyone made it out to be. The defense is still really good, but an injury or two on the line could be detrimental. There are still questions at linebacker and depth in the defensive backfield.

The AFC South will be very tight this year, with each team having a legitimate shot at potentially winning the crown. Yes, even the Tennessee Titans.

X-Factor

Leonard Fournette.

While change at the quarterback position and the addition of Foles has become the biggest story of the offseason, Fournette is this straw that will stir the drink for this offense.

He is running with purpose, he’s laughing with his teammates, he seems to be more engaged and more involved. I’m also curious to see how he is used on third down and in the passing game. The coaching staff has stated several times Fournette is going to be given every opportunity to be the focal point of this offense.

Turning point

Weeks 2 and 3.

The Jaguars travel to Houston and then host the Titans four night later. These games will tell the tale of the season. The NFL schedule is not kind. The Texans will be one of the contenders for the AFC South title. They abused the Jaguars last year. The Titans continue to be a juggernaut for this team and Jacksonville must figure out a way to beat them.

If the Jaguars can split those games, depending on what they do against Kansas City, the schedule does get a bit easier down the road after their Week 6 contest against New Orleans. For this team, good health and scheduling means everything.

Best moment in team history

1996, the Morten Andersen miss. The Jaguars looked like they would have their playoff hopes dashed after four straight wins. What was supposed to be a 30-yard chip shot was missed, sending everyone into pandemonium. The miss led to Jacksonville reaching the postseason and shockingly advancing to the AFC Championship Game.