Submitted by Gary Campbell, Nov 28, 2007 18:09

As a resident of Jacksonville and a Jaguars fan, I find it amazing that many NFL fans are unaware of just how good this Jaguars team is. They have lost 3 games this year, however, it should be noted that the first lose (by 3 pts) occurred while the Jags played without a kicker (injured during pre-game warm-ups). The 2nd lose occurred on Monday Night Football. Jacksonville was down by 7, but in scoring position when Garrard got injured and left the game. The 3rd lose occurred in New Orleans with the Jaguar backup quarterback starting.

The Jaguars are not the best team in the AFC (we all know that title currently goes to New England), but they do have the talent to beat any team in the NFL. They have a strong running game with two great running backs in Taylor and Jones-Drew. They now have a good passing game with Garrard which is currently rated 4th in the NFL as far as quarterback ratings go. The offense doesn't turn over the ball. Garrard has yet to throw an interception this year. The new offensive coordinator is an aggressive play caller (The Bills game was the most conservative play calling used by the Jags this year). The Jacksonville defense is known for hitting hard and often. They are well known throughout the league for their physical playing. Except for the loses, the game against the Bills was the worst game they played this year. I say that because of their inability to score 6 in the red zone. They opted for field goals in four of their red zone attempts. That was very unusual for Jacksonville and had a lot to do with the conservative play calling during that game. Also, it was the first game this year that Jones-Drew didn't appear to be in the game. He is usually one of the most exciting and likable players in the league.

Buffalo is a good team. I watched them play against Dallas earlier this year. As a Jaguar fan, I'm certainly glad that team didn't show up. I honestly believed the Bills were in the game until that last interception.

I think the reason Jacksonville hasn't got the recognition is because of the small market. To beat the Pats, they will need to play a perfect game and hope for a couple of Patriot mistakes.

Gary Campbell

Jacksonville FL

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