Jacksonville Jaguars Seek First Win Against Houston Texans in AFC South Battle

The Jacksonville Jaguars are set to face the Houston Texans in a crucial week four matchup at the NRG Stadium. The Jaguars, still in search of their first victory in the 2024 season, face an uphill battle against the AFC South-leading Texans.

Both teams enter the game looking for momentum after enduring losses. The Jaguars suffered a significant defeat last Monday, marking the sixth heaviest loss in franchise history. Questions persist around the performance of key players, including quarterback Trevor Lawrence, who managed only 178 yards in the last outing. Despite this, the Jaguars have historically fared well in Houston, winning their last two visits.

The Texans, led by quarterback C.J. Stroud, also come off a loss against the Minnesota Vikings. Stroud’s performance has been pivotal, with recent games highlighting his capability, despite the team’s struggle with penalties, an aspect that hindered their offensive momentum significantly in previous matches.

Jacksonville’s head coach Doug Pederson faces challenges in reinvigorating the team’s offense. Key moments in past games have been missed, including a near-interception by Lawrence and incomplete connections that thwarted possible scoring drives.

For the Jaguars, the matchup against the Texans is not only about securing a win but also about re-establishing their standing in the division. The Jaguars’ defense will face the task of containing Stroud and the strong Texan receiving corps, led by Nico Collins, the league’s leader in receiving yards.

On the Texans’ side, defensive strategy will focus on applying pressure on Trevor Lawrence, aiming to exploit any lapse in Jacksonville’s offensive line. Texans’ defenders like Derek Barnett and Will Anderson Jr. are expected to have crucial roles in managing Jacksonville’s drive attempts.

The game, scheduled for a 12 p.m. CT kickoff, will also feature the return of Jaguars’ running back Travis Etienne Jr., after missing time due to an unspecified injury acquired in a previous game.

With both teams striving to end their skids, Sunday’s game promises to be a defining moment in the early stages of the 2024 NFL season for the Jaguars and Texans alike.