3. Jacksonville Jaguars (2-3)
Week 5 AFC South ranking: No. 3
Recap: The Jacksonville Jaguars found themselves down big early in the second quarter to the Carolina Panthers, however quarterback Gardner Minshew and Co. had no plans on going down without a fight. Minshew rallied his team back all the way to a one-point deficit in the fourth quarter, but a back-breaking 59-yard touchdown run by Reggie Bonnafon helped the Panthers seal the win.
Pros: Minshew had himself another solid outing, throwing for 374 yards and two touchdowns. We’ll get to his shortcomings in a second, though. Running back Leonard Fournette also crossed the 100-yard mark for the second straight game, and wide receiver DJ Chark might be a star-in-the-making.
Cons: Minshew lost three fumbles, one of which was returned for a touchdown. He’s got to do a better job of taking care of the football. Jacksonville’s defense had a major letdown in this game, and star cornerback Jalen Ramsey‘s future remains in doubt. This Jags defense won’t be able to play up to its full potential without Ramsey on the field.
Outlook: Despite their struggles and turmoil with Ramsey, the Jags have themselves a promising young quarterback behind center who gives this team a bright future. Jacksonville will have its hands full with one of the league’s elite in Week 6, as a home matchup with the New Orleans Saints looms.