Jaguars 37, Colts 20: Jacksonville Back on Top of the AFC South After a Game of Returns
After a successful trip across the pond where the Jacksonville Jaguars (4-2) came home 2-0, it was clear they were anxious to bring the ‘Duval Devout’ their first win at EverBank Stadium hosting the Indianapolis Colts (2-4).
The Jags’ return to the United States was a theme for returns on the afternoon as the Jags returned to the top of the AFC with a 37-20 win.
Signing an extension with the Colts two weeks ago, running back Jonathan Taylor saw his return in Indy’s win over the Tennessee Titans. On Sunday, Taylor played in his first action against the Jags in 2023 whose run defense was averaging 81 yards per game allowed heading in the matchup.
Taylor recorded 19 yards on eight carries as the Colts finished the contest rushing for 44 yards on 17 carries as a team. Nonetheless, Indy challenged the Jaguars defense early asking former Jaguar Gardner Minshew to throw the ball 11 of their first 16 plays to chalk up a field goal to start the game for the injured rookie, Anthony Richardson. Minshew eventually chalked up the giveaways that gave Jacksonville the 21-6 halftime lead and eventually the victory.
Minshew finished with 33-of-55 for 329 yards, a touchdown, three interceptions, and a fumble.
The defense’s effort featured Andre Cisco, Rayshawn Jenkins, and Darious Williams all chalking up interceptions with a strip sack for Josh Allen. Perhaps part of that could be linked to a sentimental boost from Duwuane Smoot returning to action. He turned in two tackles.
While Smoot didn’t make a huge impact on the stat sheet, fans were excited to see him take the field early in the game. They can add it to the reasons to celebrate the first win for the Jags in Duval. With the Titans falling to the Ravens in London, the Houston Texans are now the only team in the division that is less than two games back in the standings.
Thursday is a short week for the next game in New Orleans against the Saints whom the Texans beat on Sunday where hopefully Trevor Lawrence can return to action after dinging up his knee in the fourth quarter.
