In the MLB, when you lose your first two games, no big deal. 160 to go. In the NBA, you lose your first two games, and there's still 80 left. But in the NFL, your first two games are one eighth of the season. Playoff teams usually lose a maximum of seven, and this year's Jacksonville Jaguars already has two of those losses. Panic time?
Not quite, but for a team that many picked as a serious Super Bowl contender this year, some adjustments better be in the making and quick. To this point, they're at the risk of being this year's Chicago Bears of last year--losing lots of close games and staying at home during the playoffs after such a promising season last year.
It was another great week in the NFL with great individual and team stories. Some big names who starred were Aaron Rogers, Matt Cassel, Darren McFadden, Jay Cutler, and Kurt Warner. The Colts, Panthers, and Broncos all won impressively late in the game.
And yes, a much-improved Bills team over the Jaguars. Their young duo of Trent Edwards (QB) and Marshawn Lynch (RB) were impressive again and seem to guarantee a bright future for the franchise. Edwards, in particular, shined as he completed 20 of 25 passes for 239 yards and the game-winning touchdown.
As for the Jags, blame was certainly shared. The defense looked bewildered as the Bills opened the game with an eleven-play, 82-yard drive. Somehow though, things actually looked good early when the Jags held on to a 16-10 lead early in the fourth after trailing for all of the first half. They had the mo', David Garrard was making some plays, and the running game even seemed to be picking up steam. But the Bills recovered in time for a James Hardy (WR) touchdown reception and a late field goal.
Garrard was okay, but obviously not good enough. His three picks in the first two games match all of last year's total. The running game was good for less than 100 yards (again), so Garrard isn't getting a lot of help, especially from his depleted offensive line. Although they did protect him better yesterday than last week, giving up two sacks compared to seven.
With all the questions and problems in Jacksonville, did I mention that next week the Jags head to Indianapolis?
