JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jaguars made a statement Sunday, beating the Bengals at home in EverBank.
It was a much-overdue win at home and it was the first back-to-back win of the season. At 5-3, the Jaguars continue to show they are a playoff contender. And this wasn’t just a win; the Jaguars absolutely dominated the Bengals much like they did against the Indianapolis Colts two weeks ago.
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But it was what happened when the clock wasn’t running that got everyone’s attention. First of all, Leonard Fournette was benched due to a violation of team rules. This came as a shock to Jaguar fans shortly before the game when they heard the best player on offense wouldn't be suiting up.
This is unacceptable and concerning.
It was reported that Fournette was late or missed a mandatory team event. Hopefully, this isn’t the beginning of a pattern of poor decisions by our young star and serves as a learning lesson for him.
Even as good as he is, he’s not above the law. Head Coach Doug Marrone is trying to change the culture. He sent a message to his football team and it was without a doubt the right call.
The altercation between A.J. Green and Jalen Ramsey was interesting. You don’t often see anything that flagrant when it comes to fights during an NFL game. Yes, they happen. And, yes, Ramsey shouldn't have pushed Green in the back, but kicking him out of the game was a ridiculous call. The referee got that wrong.
On the other hand, there is no doubt that Green's actions were punished accordingly. He can certainly expect a hefty fine from the league office. Unfortunately, the highly anticipated matchup between two of the best in the league was cut short.
It needs to be mentioned that our quarterback is playing some very good football. I've been very clear about what it’s going to take to get to the playoffs. It really comes down to the play of No. 5.
Obviously, our defense is strong enough. Obviously, we have the run game to get us a playoff bid. The concern is the play of our quarterback.
Bortles was smart with the football Sunday and completed some critical passes on third down -- very efficient. I see a quarterback right now that is confident and comfortable leading this football team, and I expect this to continue. He's not going to be perfect -- nobody is -- but he doesn’t have to be perfect with the team that is assembled around him.
The San Diego Chargers will be the next opponent that tries to break the Bank. Go Jaguars!