Bortles to start at San Diego Sunday

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – After giving the Jaguars a spark in the second half of a blowout home loss to the Colts on Sunday, rookie quarterback Blake Bortles will get his first NFL start at San Diego.

Head coach Gus Bradley announced the decision after the 44-17 defeat and reiterated it at a news conference Monday.

"I just really felt a sense of confidence from all the things that he's learned," Bradley said.

Down 30-0, Bortles entered the game and went 14 of 24 for 223 yards and two touchdowns. He also threw two interceptions.

SAM'S COMMENTARY: Bortles era begins; fans have hope

That's compared to the first half, when quarterback Chad Henne went 4 for 7 for 33 yards.

"You saw him get out of tough situations," Bradley said. "He adjusted very well on the run and made some plays.

"He showed poise. I think that he really handled the situation well."

Since Bortles was drafted third overall in May, fans have been waiting for the time he'd be named the starter.

The former UCF QB showed his potential during the Jaguars' four preseason games, but Bradley kept Henne as the starter.

After beginning the season 0-3, he's decided it's time for a change.

Bradley said Bortles in the game gives the rest of the team energy.

"It does affect the defense," he said. "When we have some success, that momentum will carry through."

Bradley said Bortles will probably get all the team reps now that he's been named the starter.

And fans hope Bortles will allow the Jags to compete as the season moves along.