Jaguars Poised to Clinch AFC South Title Against Reeling Colts

The Jacksonville Jaguars can win the AFC South division this Sunday. They host the Indianapolis Colts at EverBank Stadium with a playoff berth already secured. A victory, combined with other results, would seal the division crown for Jacksonville.

This matchup carries extra weight for both franchises. According to league reports, a Jaguars win would also eliminate the Colts from postseason contention, adding significant stakes to the regular-season finale.

Rematch Presents Starkly Different Scenarios

The teams met just three weeks ago. Jacksonville secured a decisive 36-19 victory in that early December contest. That win propelled them to the top of the division standings, a position they have held ever since.

The Colts enter this rematch severely weakened. Star quarterback Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in the last meeting. Indianapolis will now start veteran Philip Rivers, who has seen limited action in recent years.

Jaguars head coach Liam Coen acknowledged the unique challenge. He emphasized studying recent opponent film and anticipating strategic adjustments. Coen stated the importance of building on previous successes while adapting the game plan.

Division Crown Within Reach as Colts Fight for Survival

For Jacksonville, the objective is clear. Winning the AFC South guarantees a home playoff game. It also represents a major step forward for the franchise’s rebuilding project under Coach Coen.

For Indianapolis, the game is a final stand. Their playoff hopes are fragile and require a win alongside help from other teams. This creates a classic high-pressure NFL regular-season finale with everything on the line.

The stage is set for a dramatic finish to the AFC South race. The Jacksonville Jaguars control their own destiny and aim to clinch the division title in front of their home fans, simultaneously ending their rival’s season.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: What do the Jaguars need to clinch the AFC South?

The Jaguars need to beat the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday. They also need the Houston Texans to lose to the Los Angeles Chargers on Saturday to secure the title outright.

Q2: How have the Colts changed since the last matchup?

The Colts lost starting quarterback Daniel Jones to a major injury. Veteran Philip Rivers is now expected to start, which significantly alters their offensive dynamic and game plan.

Q3: What is the significance of winning the AFC South?

Winning the division guarantees a home game in the first round of the playoffs. It also provides a more favorable seeding compared to entering the postseason as a Wild Card team.

Q4: Can the Colts still make the playoffs?

Yes, but their path is narrow. They must beat Jacksonville and need several other specific results across the league to fall in their favor to secure a Wild Card spot.

Q5: What has been the key to the Jaguars’ success this season?

Strong defensive performances and efficient play from quarterback Trevor Lawrence have been crucial. The team has also shown resilience, winning several close games throughout the year.