By Michael Bonts, Jax Sports News.com
JACKSONVILLE (Florida Sports Wire)– After losing to Denver last week the Jacksonville Jaguars (2-1) bounced back with a convincing 35-6 win over the New England Patriots (1-2) Sunday at EverBank Field.
“It was a good response,” Jacksonville head coach Liam Coen said. “It was the response we talked about all week, winning the game in all three phases.”
It was a good win over a bad team.
New England imploded. Two Drake Maye interceptions and a fumble. Missed field goal. One penalty negated a touchdown. You get the picture.
The Jaguars recorded three takeaways and now have a takeaway in nine straight games. Travis Hunter caught his first career interception.
“It felt great, but I was on to the next play,” Hunter said of his pick. “That happened in the second quarter, so I had to finish the game. Interceptions are great to catch but I was focused on winning the game and continuing to focus on the next play.”
New England’s defense was porous. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence and the Jaguars took full advantage. The Jacksonville offense averaged over 5.3 yards per play and was far better than the New England defense in situational football, finishing 8-of-12 on third down and 5-5 in the red zone.
Good teams capitalize on their opponents’ miscues. The Jaguars did just that. They also minimized their mistakes. The result was a romp.
With three passing touchdowns, Lawrence passed QB Blake Bortles for the second most passing touchdowns in franchise history with 105. Lawrence was 14-of-21 for 141 passing yards. Jakobi Meyers recorded his 25th career TD reception and led the Jacksonville with seven receptions and 64 receiving yards.
Chris Rodriguez Jr. scored his first rushing touchdown as a member of the Jaguars. Bhayshul Tuten also rushed for a score and now has 204 rushing yards on the season
If you’re looking for a Pats’ highlight Marcus Jones intercepted Lawrence at the Jaguars 33-yard line and returned it 12 yards to the 21-yard line. The pass was tipped by Jaylen Reed.
“My concern level is very high for this football team,” Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel said post-game. “I just wanna coach and improve. I think that’s the biggest thing when you come off a game like that. You just wanna get back and work.”
Pat’s kicker Andy Borregales went 2-of-3 on field goals, but missed a 38-yarder that would’ve pulled New England within eight points.
Jacksonville has now won six straight home games.
(Photo by Nancy DeLander Beecher/Florida Sports Wire)
