The Indianapolis Colts are determined to keep their playoff aspirations alive as they prepare to host the Jacksonville Jaguars this Sunday at 1 p.m. EST. Though the Colts are optimistic about their chances, they acknowledge that they will require assistance from other teams to secure a postseason spot.
The Jaguars enter this matchup favored by 6.5 points, with an impressive record of 9-5-1 against the spread, while the Colts stand at 8-7. Historically, the Colts lead the series 28-21, but the Jaguars secured a 36-19 victory in their last encounter on December 7 in Jacksonville.
Last week, the Jaguars defeated the Denver Broncos 34-20, whereas the Colts suffered a heavy loss to the San Francisco 49ers, falling 48-27. The Jaguars will look to capitalize on the Colts” vulnerabilities, particularly their offensive line, which has been plagued by injuries.
One player to watch is Josh Hines-Allen, who has excelled against the Colts in previous matchups, recording 11.5 sacks in 11 games. His performance could be crucial, given the state of the Colts” offensive protection.
Another key figure for the Colts is Jonathan Taylor, a Pro Bowl running back who started the season strong but has seen a dip in performance recently. After a high of 244 rushing yards in Week 10, he has averaged only 70 yards per game since then. Indianapolis will need a significant contribution from Taylor, who was limited to just 74 yards on 21 carries in their earlier meeting this season.
On the other side, Trevor Lawrence, the Jaguars” quarterback, is coming off a solid performance against the Colts earlier this month, throwing for 244 yards and two touchdowns. The Colts” secondary, which struggled against the 49ers, will have to tighten up to contain both Lawrence and standout receiver Brian Thomas Jr., who has consistently torched the Colts” defense.
In terms of injuries, the Jaguars will miss cornerback Jourdan Lewis, who is undergoing season-ending foot surgery. Several other players, including guard Patrick Mekari and center Robert Hainsey, are also dealing with injuries, although some have returned to limited practices.
The Colts are facing their own injury challenges, with key offensive linemen sidelined. Braden Smith has been placed on injured reserve, while Tanor Bortolini has also been ruled out. The availability of left tackle Bernhard Raimann remains uncertain as the game approaches.
The stakes are high for both teams. The Jaguars are looking to secure their fourth season sweep of the Colts and increase their chances of clinching the AFC South title. Meanwhile, the Colts are fighting to avoid a fifth consecutive loss and maintain their slim playoff hopes.
Both teams will be keeping an eye on the outcome of the Houston Texans vs. Los Angeles Chargers game on Saturday, as a Texans loss could not only aid the Colts” playoff chances but also help the Jaguars clinch the division title.
As both teams prepare for this critical showdown, fans can expect a fierce contest as the Colts fight for survival in the playoff race while the Jaguars aim to solidify their position atop the AFC South.
