Carolina Panthers vs Jaguars: Q&A with Black & Teal
The Carolina Panthers host the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday looking to increase their winning streak to three games and get above .500 for the first time this season.
The Panthers’ season looked bleak after falling to 0-2 and losing quarterback Cam Newton. After two straight wins behind the arm of backup quarterback Kyle Allen, the Panthers season is trending upwards in a crowded NFC South.
To get above .500, the Panthers will have to beat another backup quarterback who is having success in Gardner Minshew.
To get you prepped for the game, we talked with Black and Teal, the Jacksonville Jaguars blog on FanSided, to get their insider information and preview the game.
1. Gardner Minshew has been a revelation since taking over from Nick Foles. What’s contributed to his success and do you think Foles’ job is in jeopardy?
I don’t think Foles’ job is in jeopardy, but it does cause some controversy here in Jacksonville. Minshew has a demeanor about him that is perfect for this organization. He is accurate and throws in tight space. He also is calm in the huddle and makes things happen in the pocket and on the move. The Jaguars need that kind of player running the team right now.
2. What allowed Fournette to explode for over 200 yards against the Broncos and how have teams been able to bottle him up in the past?
The offensive line was challenged by head coach Doug Marrone last week. The unit answered the call. The Jaguars used multiple formations with extra blockers in the game to move the football. It is something we have expected from offensive coordinator John DeFilippo all season. It is also something that should continue this week. The Jaguars want to forge their identity as a run-first offense. This was their first true step forward.
3. Should we expect to see Jalen Ramsey in the lineup?
The $64,000 question. Jalen Ramsey has appeared on the team’s injury report with a back issue. It’s the same thing that kept him out of the game last Sunday. Also, the news that team owner Shad Khan does not want to trade his cornerback has surfaced and there appears to be a stalemate between both sides. Stay tuned with popcorn in hand. Head coach Doug Marrone said they are taking a “day-by-day” approach to Ramsey’s injury. We shall see what happens.
4. Who is one Jaguars player that Panthers fans might not be aware of but should be?
DJ Chark. The wide receiver is fast becoming a main threat in this offense and a top tier wide receiver. Chark is fast, with sub-4.4 speed and is tall and lanky for a true red-zone threat. He is Minshew’s top target so far this season. The Panthers fans should know the Jaguars have three wide receivers in Chark, Dede Westbrook and Chris Conley who are all burners and can cover a lot of space in a short amount of time.
5. Prediction for the game?
I think the Jaguars continue to play the brand of football they want. Playing without Kawaan Short hurts the Panthers up front defensively. Brian Burns has been impressive for your team, but in the end, the Jaguars pass rush gets to Kyle Allen this week. I’ll take the visitors on the road and a return to Duuuval with a three-game winning streak.