The Jaguars left Dallas with plenty of positives on Sunday, defeating the Cowboys 34-14. An encouraging performance from Trevor Lawrence is sure to build some excitement as we near Week 1 of the regular season. 

The new face of the franchise went 11/12 for 139 yards and his first two passing touchdowns in a Jaguars uniform. He looked in complete control in the pocket and threw a handful of well-placed balls that defied his rookie status. Granted, the Cowboys defense was composed mainly of backups, but Lawrence’s offensive line was as well. 

A few major developments happened earlier in the week concerning Lawrence. One, he was named the starter for Week 1 against Houston, and two, Gardner Minshew was traded to Philadelphia. Although it was hardly ever a question that Lawrence was the guy, the vote of confidence from the coaching staff may have been the push he needed to start moving in the right direction. He couldn’t ask for a better situation to start his career, as his first game will be in Houston against the Texans, who currently have the NFL’s worst odds to win the Super Bowl at +30000. 

Lawrence’s second score of the contest went to Laviska Shenault, who capped off a very solid preseason heading into his second year as a pro. While D.J. Chark was the presumed number one target heading into the season, his missed time with injury might have opened the door for Shenault to develop into the focal point of the passing attack, as he and number 16 have looked to be very much on the same page. 

Devine Ozigbo was impressive out of the backfield on Sunday, rushing for 68 yards and a touchdown on just 11 carries. It remains to be seen if this will earn him more playing time going forward. Carlos Hyde only received one carry, but could have just been getting rest along with James Robinson as the presumed two main ball carriers for the 2021 season.

Jacksonville’s defense had their best outing of the preseason as well, but faced only players from the Dallas second and third teams. However; the week to week improvement was noticeable, which is the overarching goal of these contests. 

The Jags do get a few weeks to rest before opening week, but September 12th is right around the corner. Will Deshaun Watson be on the opposing sidelines amid the swirling off the field concerns? Will the Jacksonville starting lineup be healthy? Be sure to check back soon at 904happyhour.com for a Week 1 preview.

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