Despite the reinsertion of quarterback Gardner Minshew, the Jacksonville Jaguars were thumped 40-14 in Baltimore last week. A very poor effort that led to the franchise’s 13th straight loss. Once again, another wasted Sunday afternoon for Jaguars fans.
However, the city of Jacksonville erupted in elation just three hours later. That’s right, the New York Jets earned their first victory of the year in Los Angeles against the Rams. This means the Jaguars are 120 minutes away from losing the final two games. Therefore enabling Jacksonville to secure the number one pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.
What a gift! Potentially a pick that will shift the momentum of the franchise for the years ahead. An early gift for the hardened fans in Jacksonville who yearn for a competitive team. A team that is no longer the laughing stock of the media. Primetime matchups (maybe). As well as a team with hopes on returning to the AFC Championship game in the near future. Tick tock. Tick tock.
Jaguars Are on the Clock
Tick tock. Tick tock.
Currently, Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawrence is the overwhelming favorite to hear his name called first this upcoming April. According to critics, he is a trans-generational talent. Critics claim there is a substantial gap between Lawrence and other draft-eligible quarterbacks. He has all of the tools and skills to help put Jacksonville on the NFL map. Adding Lawrence behind center, coupled with a talented group of skill players on offense, impacts the future of the franchise.
Lawrence will immediately become the face of the franchise. His jersey will sell off the racks. Fans will start growing their hair out to laud the rookie sensation. For the first time in years, the NFL Draft broadcast will not cut to commercial during the Jaguars selection. All eyes will be on the new General Manager (pending) and the coveted Lawrence. Just two games before this becomes reality.
Tick tock. Tick tock.
Until Then
What do the fans need now?
Patience.
More Patience.
Tick tock. Tick tock.
There are still the potential of four critical games that need to conclude for the dream of Lawrence to become reality. After all, Clemson is again gunning for a college football national title. Sure, feel free to cheer for Trevor and his health. But it wouldn’t hurt for Clemson to lose early. Right?
Additionally, Jaguars head coach Doug Marrone claims that his goal is to win. Tough to do with the lack of talent on the field for the Jaguars on Sundays. Marrone needs to put a team on the field for the next two weeks and let the chips fall where they may.
Ultimately, the next two losses could change the franchise forever. That’s right! Forever.
Tick Tock. Tick Tock.
Good News
The good news is that both of the Jaguars next opponents are battling for seeding and a spot in the playoffs. Therefore neither can afford and a loss to Jacksonville. Or so it seems. But it is 2020 after all.
Over the next two weeks, the only thing the fans can do is sit back and watch the minutes melt away against the Chicago Bears and Indianapolis Colts.
Go ahead and try to relax. Drink some egg nog or whatever your cup of cheer might be. Enjoy the holidays knowing that April is just around the corner.
Certainly, nobody likes to lose 15 straight in a season. Nonetheless when the clock strikes all zeroes two Sundays from now, the Bold City could be smiling. This time there’s nothing the NFL media can do about it. Jacksonville and Lawrence will be the talk of the league for the months ahead.
Tick tock. Tick tock.
