The Jacksonville Jaguars (1-1) could not handle the Jets (2-0) and their impressive defense, losing a laugher 32 to 3. The Jaguars defense did not play particularly terrible football, but four Luke McCown interceptions ensured the Jets offense would have a comfortable starting position in nearly each drive. With their backs against the wall, the defense only allowed 182 passing yards to Mark Sanchez and 101 rushing yards to the entire Jets offense.
However, what the statistics do not show is that the Jets got just about all the yards they needed, as Sanchez passed for a pair of touchdowns, Shonn Green ran for another score, and kicker Nick Folk was able to boot three field goals without needing to kick from any further out than 45 yards.
The story of the day came down to the impressive Jets defense, which coaxed four interceptions and a safety sack (on the opening drive, no less) from quarterback Luke McCown. As the game reached the ludicrous zone, the Jaguars elected to send in rookie Blaine Gabbert under center. Gabbert completed 5 of 6 attempts for 52 yards, but the effort of more cute than impressive.
On the bright side, the Jaguars defense did pick off Mark Sanchez twice in the first half, and Maurice Jones-Drew averaged nearly 5 yards per carry. But, taken altogether, the Jaguars were thoroughly over-matched today. Consider the case of Mike Thomas, who was targeted a whopping 10 times today, but had only 3 receptions for 29 yards and no touchdowns.
Luke McCown's terrible game today may lead to (a) an even sooner inaguration for Gabbert and (b) much heightened criticism for the sudden release of David Garrard.
The Jacksonville Jaguars play Cam Newton and the Carolina Panthers next Sunday at 1:00 p.m. ET on CBS. For Jaguars updates, commentary, and community, head over to Big Cat Country.