Jaguars Buccaneers Betting – Jags Claw-Out Win In All-Florida Battle
The matchup in the third week of the preseason between the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers features two teams that highly underachieved this past season. Both teams look to use the preseason as a catalyst to regular season success, so this game should be more hard fought than your typical preseason battle. Job security may be at stake, as Jacksonville coach Jack Del Rio, and quarterback David Garrard’s future with the team is on the line this year. Let’s get into it.
NFL Betting: Jacksonville Jaguars @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Online betting odds: Jaguars -2.5
Why To Bet On The Jaguars
The Jaguars first team defense was torn up by the Miami Dolphins last week, allowing two touchdowns and nearly 200 yards to Miami starter Chad Henne. The Jaguars defense should look to redeem themselves in a game where the Bucs will be without Freeman. The Jaguars success in the regular season hinges on the running game, and feature back Maurice Jones-Drew performing at a high level again. Jones-Drew will have to compliment the passing game as well, as the Jags are devoid of a true number one wide receiver, although Mike Sims-Walker is getting there. Regardless, the Jaguars suffered a late loss at Miami, falling by a point. They should be confident enough to regain their stride.
Why To Bet on the Buccaneers
Although the Bucs were able to defeat the Chiefs in their week two game by a score of 20-15, all is not well in Tampa Bay. Josh Freeman was sidelined with a thumb fracture that will keep him out for the rest of the preseason and leaves his regular season status somewhat in doubt, as well. With that being said, the Jaguars and Chiefs are opponents on the same level. The Bucs can take this game, but will need backup Josh Johnson to perform well in Freeman’s absence as he will see the bulk of the time. He did perform well against Kansas City, going six-of-10 for 113 yards and a touchdown. The way he plays could very well determine the outcome of the game.
How the Game Will Play Out
While Johnson will not face a tough defense going against the Jaguars, I do expect Jacksonville’s first unit to look to the battle against a number two to redeem their poor performance last week. The Jaguars should be able to take the game, especially if Jones-Drew can get things going offensively. Take the Jaguars in this one.
