Jaguars News Wire

Last night's Week 13 game between the Jacksonville-Baltimore ended in familiar fashion, with a 38-35 loss that could've easily gone for the better for the Jaguars. Jacksonville fans were happy for one thing this morning: they didn't have to watch another tough home loss.

In Baltimore, the team played much better than the past several weeks. The run game was working, the defense wasn't particularly inconsistent for once, and even David Garrard decided to show up for the game. But when it came to getting the ball back with just over two minutes left, the defensive unit delivered with a 3 and out stand, while the offense floundered to result in another loss for the Jags.

Altogether, the pass game was more efficient than in recent weeks. Garrard put up a solid 4:2 TD to INT ratio (before the game the team as a whole was putting up a 9:23 ratio) while passing for over 300 yards and pushing the Ravens defense up the field drive after drive. However, Garrard is still rumored to be in management's doghouse, with an offseason move for a QB imminent. His favorite targets were weekly performers Marcedes Lewis (4 Catches, 54 Yards, TD) and Mike Sims-Walker (4 Catches, 149 Yards, 2 TDs), while Brooks Foster (3 Catches, 101 Yards, TD) stepped up to compensate for a rare, nearly invisible performance by Mike Thomas.

The run game, although limited, was effective as usual. Kenarious Fluellen put up another solid performance with a 6.75 YPC and a touchdown although limited to another sub-100 yard game due to a need to pass. Greg Jones also added in some crucial yards, picking up several first downs on 3 carries to the tune of 7 YPC. Altogether another decent, yet underwhelming, rush attack from the Jaguars.

The shining moment of yet another week was the defense, which played very solidly albeit unspectacularly (as is the forte of this defensive unit). Allowing less than 300 yards by the Ravens, the defense held strong at several crucial points of the game, forcing 3 field goals and also allowing only two 3rd Down conversions on 8 attempts by the Ravens. Terrance Knighton was crucial to the run defense, with 3 stops behind the line to keep Jamal Charles bottled up. Altogether, the Jaguars defense managed to bottle up the usually explosive Charles for only 82 yards in total. The pass defense seemed to hold up relatively well, allowing several receptions to multiple receivers, but only allowing 35 yards at most to a receiver and no touchdowns to any WRs or TEs. However, Charles struck in the pass game to the tune of 4 receptions for 95 yards and 2 TDs. Special Teams also suffered from the Ravens speed players, getting gashed for yet another return touchdown last night in a continuance of shoddy special teams play all season long.

Next week Jacksonville faces division rival Tennessee away in a must-win rematch of the earlier week 5 loss 28-24 in Jacksonville.

The Jaguars made a minor move to improve the defense Thursday night. Coach Jack Del Rio announced the awarding of CB A.J. Jefferson off of waivers from Arizona and the release of S Donald Washington. Jefferson is looked at as a project cornerback with decent potential to be nickelback or dimeback in the future. Washington played special teams primarily and served as a backup safety, receiving little no snaps on defense each game since his addition in week 3.

The Sunday night game between Jacksonville and Cincinnati was a close one. In the end the Jags prevailed in a 20-10 victory.

A tough Jaguars defense once again won the day. Giving up a total of 210 yards, the defense came away with two crucial interceptions (by Alphonso Smith and Michael Huff) and a fumble recovery. With an uncharacteristically ineffective offense, the defense stepped up to ensure a Jaguars victory.

The lackluster offense put up little on the board, with less than 100 rushing yards, barely over 150 passing yards, and a redzone interception by the now-hated David Garrard. Jaguars fans have of recent been calling for a trade, and Coach Jack Del Rio seems obliged to send Garrard to another city.

Next week the Jaguars begin the the last stretch of the season with two home games against Cleveland and Atlanta.

Well the Jaguars seem to be wrapping up another disappointing season in just fashion. Tonight, Jacksonville lost 27-21 at home against Cleveland to the boos of tens of thousands of Jaguars fans.

After beginning the game with a dominant 21-10 lead and leading into the half ahead 21-13, the Jags experienced an embarrassing collapse in the second half that resulted in another defeat. The offense, in particular David Garrard, is much to blame with several turnovers that would become points on the board. The defense, normally strong, gave up yards in bunches in the last two quarters as well. All in all, another disappointing game for Jaguars fans - if they still exist after another mediocre season.

Jacksonville raps up the 2011 season with a home game against Atlanta next week.

Wednesday night was the last straw for the Jaguars, who were already out of contention and was an exhibition of coaches and players fighting for their jobs next season. A tough loss to Atlanta 31-21 is exemplary of the Jaguars season as a whole: a uphill battle that simply never seemed to be going their way.

Jacksonville put up a decent fight, with an offense that looked decisive at times behind new starter Curtis Painter, while the defense also put up a strong front up until the end of the game. A poor rushing game showed Jacksonville's faults on offense, as they simply couldn't crack the Atlanta run defense.

Looking forward to next season, there seems to be some restructuring that will be going on in Jacksonville. Jaguars owner Warmaster has already announced the departure of David Garrard prematurely, however it is yet to be seen if this simply means another starter will be brought in with Garrard as backup or Garrard will be dealt on draft day.

Stay tuned for updates on the Jacksonville offseason moves, as restricted free agency nears following the playoffs.

Coach Jack Del Rio announced the organizational award winners for 2011, while also applauding several players for winning league awards. Defensive end Aaron Kampman and fullback Greg Jones were both awarded back-to-back Pro Bowls, while rookie halfback Kenarious Fluellen won a Pro Bowl spot in his first season.

MVP: HB Kenarious Fluellen (214 Rushes, 1280 Yards, 6.0 YPC, 18 TDs)
Drafted in the second round, Fluellen burst onto the scene from Week 1 and took off to a monster rookie season that included a Pro Bowl nomination.

Offensive Player of the Year: HB Kenarious Fluellen (214 Rushes, 1280 Yards, 6.0 YPC, 18 TDs)
Drafted in the second round, Fluellen burst onto the scene from Week 1 and took off to a monster rookie season that included a Pro Bowl nomination.

Defensive Player of the Year: RE Aaron Kampman (20 Tackles, 8 Sacks, 1 FF)
Kampman played another Pro Bowl worthy season, even though his statistics dropped from the 15 sack mark last season. He still has a couple solid seasons left in him.

Rookie of the Year: HB Kenarious Fluellen (214 Rushes, 1280 Yards, 6.0 YPC, 18 TDs)
Drafted in the second round, Fluellen burst onto the scene from Week 1 and took off to a monster rookie season that included a Pro Bowl nomination.

Most Improved Player: TE Zach Miller (20 Receptions, 320 Yards, 16.0 YPC, 1 TD)
Miller played only a bit part last season with 7 receptions and sub-100 yards on the season, but this season truly became a part of the pass game in two tight end sets behind Marcedes Lewis. Look for an increased involvement in the pass game going forward.

Jacksonville started the offseason with a bang, announcing the resigning of several key players: DL Terrance Knighton, LB Justin Durant, RB Deji Karim, WRs Mike Thomas and Brooks Foster, and DB Rashad Cook.

By locking up these players, Jacksonville has three remaining restricted free agents - LB Daryl Smith, OL Jason Fox, and RB Andre Brown. Smith will be a tough decision, since he was the previous starter but simply may be cost-ineffective. Fox was acquired from Detroit and will serve as offensive line depth if resigned. Brown most likely will be on his way out of Jacksonville after playing very little in a crowded backfield.

***Update***
Jacksonville released DBs A.J. Jefferson and Gerard Lawson, LB Kirk Morrison, OL Johan Asiata, TE Tom Crabtree, and QB David Garrard. Management also announced the resigning of OL Jason Fox and LB Daryl Smith, and also announced their intention to let RB Andre Brown hit free agency.

Coach Jack Del Rio of the Jaguars announced today two trades that will affect the draft for Jacksonville tremendously.

First, it was announced that a deal had been struck with Cleveland to send starting LB Daryl Smith and his large salary to the Browns for the 16th third round pick.

Trading once again with Oakland, Jacksonville acquired a starting quarterback in Jason Campbell and also acquired LB Quentin Groves in a trade that swaps first and third rounds with Oakland. Jacksonville receives the 29th pick in the first and third rounds for the 12th pick in the first and the 16th pick in the third round (acquired from Cleveland).

Stay tuned for news on the ongoing draft, as Jacksonville's first round pick is coming up and they still have two second round picks and a third round later on.

It was a gloomy day in Jacksonville, and in that mood the Jacksonville season began without a bang, but with a whimper.

Losing the entirety of the game, Jacksonville's defense gave up 262 yards and five rushing touchdowns en route to a devastating 49-14 loss. The defense only held the Dolphins offense twice in seven third down attempts, much worse than usual.

Jacksonville's offense was underwhelming, but performed decently at times, moving up the field efficiently twice for a touchdown each time. However, the Jacksonville run game never got started and the new pass game under Jason Campbell suffered from pressure and poor pass choice.

Next week Jacksonville faces division rival Indianapolis for the first time this season against new coach FireMcDaniels. Expect Coach Warmaster91 to push his players in practice in expectation of a better performance on both sides of the ball. As a side note, special teams played well this week, although backup running back Deji Karim did fumble the kickoff return to begin the second half.

Jacksonville announced today the release of 2-time Pro Bowl defensive end Aaron Kampman, whose decline with age had cost him a starting job and now ultimately a roster spot. Expect the once-dominant pass rusher to catch on with another team shortly.

At the same time, Jacksonville added some depth to their offensive line with the signing of undrafted rookie center Cap Kelso. Kelso will serve as the primary backup to Benji Tuiloma at center.

Coach Warmaster91 also announced another move: Jacksonville and Denver have agreed in principal to a trade that would send rookie running back Tim Thicke to Denver for rookie linebacker Nate Crisp and a draft pick. The trade is currently waiting for committee approval.

Update:
Tuesday night, sources in Jacksonville were claiming that the Jaguars had reached an agreement with Oakland to trade their 3rd round pick for quarterback Tony Pike. Jacksonville announced several corresponding moves - the release of previous backup Curtis Painter and third quarterback Jevan Snead. Coach Warmaster91 also announced that the Jaguars have once again signed defensive lineman Ricardo Mathews, who has played in stints for Jacksonville over the past two seasons.

Coach Warmaster91 had a rare smile on his face when reporters came to interview him post-game. Jacksonville had just beat the division rival Colts in Indy 42-21 to start a season that seemed gloomy after a crushing defeat in the home opener.

The offense and defense both performed admirably today, and even special teams played well besides the one return touchdown given up late in the game.

On offense, the run game was dominant, totaling 274 yards and altogether averaging 7.21 yards per carry. Kenarious Fluellen contributed for over half the yards while also scoring a touchdown, and behind Fluellen the remaining backs (Rashad Jennings, Greg Jones, Deji Karim) amounted to 134 yards and two touchdowns.

Jason Campbell also ran an efficient pass game, based primarily on play action, and came through in several tough situations. Finishing with a QB Rating of 121.9, Campbell was 13-21 with 164 yards and two touchdowns, while spreading the ball to six receivers. Brooks Foster was the most active with 4 receptions for 61 yards and a touchdown, while tight end Marcedes Lewis had 3 catches for a touchdown also.

The defense played admirably against the Colts' pass-oriented offense, allowing 216 yards, of which only 1 yard was rushing. Carson Palmer was held to a 50% completion percentage, while the defense came away with three interceptions (Venice Young, Michael Huff). The defensive line, especially new starter Jacob Ford, put up a very effective pass rush. Racking up two sacks, Ford and his fellow lineman made Palmer rush passes all game long - several of which ended up as interceptions.

After an effective game in Indy, Jacksonville's next game is an away game in New England Week 4 after an early bye week. Jacksonville looks to rest up and get some extra preparation for the pass-happy Patriots offense in the meantime.

No sooner had the trade with San Francisco been formalized, had Jacksonville gotten trade talks started once again.

Friday afternoon coach Warmaster announced that a deal had been struck with Oakland to bring elite corner Mike Jenkins to Jacksonville in exchange for current starter Alphonso Smith and dimeback Don Carey.

The trade is currently awaiting commissioner approval. This marks yet another salary dump on Jacksonville's part this season.

Saturday night's game was another good one for Jacksonville. In a 30-17 victory in New England, Jacksonville came away with a win due to all-around good play by a team that usually excels in one area while faulting in another.

Excelling on the offensive side of the ball, Jason Campbell managed to move Jacksonville downfield while the rungame would close out drives in the redzone. Kenarious Fluellen and Greg Jones each had touchdowns, with contributions for Rashad Jennings on 3rd and short situations. Campbell spread the ball to seven receivers, while putting up a solid 60 percent completion percentage.

On defense, Jacksonville held the Patriots to only a field goal through the first three quarters, to the tune of 29 rushing yards all game. Altogether the defense managed three sacks and an interception in an effort that would trouble Patriots quarterback Tom Brady all game. Special teams play was also effective, allowing few yards on returns on the defensive side while also scoring a kick return touchdown behind Deji Karim's quick feet.

Next week Jacksonville has yet another away game against the 1-3 Chicago Bears.

And a winning streak is born. With a 45-42 victory over Chicago, Jacksonville has its first winning streak in recent history. Now owning a 3-1 record, they're looking to be legitimate contenders for the AFC South title.

Jacksonville's offense looked explosive today, moving upfield every time they had the ball, settling for only one field goal and a single punt. Mistakes were costly though. A botch by receiver Marko Mitchell allowed for a pick by Chicago's Nate Clements, that would lead to a Chicago score. Also, a late fumble by Kenarious Fluellen would cost Jacksonville another touchdown. However, altogether the offense put up 400 yards beyond super-efficient play by Jason Campbell, who posted a 128.2 QB Rating and 72% Completion Percentage. Fueled by short-yardage back Rashad Jennings and starter Fluellen, the run game accounted for 4 touchdowns and a neat 156 yards rushing.

Defensively, the team could've played better. Giving up nearly 400 yards, mostly receiving, Jacksonville showed stout run defense but poor pass defense. Specifically burned by speedster Devin Hester, the pass defense gave up huge chunks of yardage in key situations, and rarely held strong in the redzone. This must improve going forward in a very pass-happy division. Safety Macho Harris and corner Mike Jenkins did each come away with key interceptions on what could've been scoring drives for Chicago.

Next week Jacksonville plays a home game against rival Tennessee. It should be a good game, and a rough one; Tennessee has embarrassed Jacksonville in their last two match ups (last season).