Can the Jaguars upset New England, really?

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It’s a question that has lingered with every opponent of the New England Patriots this year: can we, could we, will we pull off the upset? So far the answers have been no but the games are getting tighter and soon the competition more challenging.

But can the Jaguars do the unthinkable?

To do this their backfield, namely QB David Garrard, RB Maurice Jones-Drew and RB Fred Taylor will have to play lights out. To steal a line from the Ultimate Fighting Championship, the Jacksonville Jaguars backfield will need to “ground and pound” New England, thus controlling the clock.

It is important to keep Tom Brady, Randy Moss and the rest of the record setting offense off of the field and out of rhythm. Even more importantly, keep the Jaguar defense off of the field and well rested for the fourth quarter. Keep the veteran New England defense on the field for as long as possible and they will become more and more vulnerable.

New England likes to mix up coverage schemes so Garrard’s efficiency could be just what the doctor ordered.

Everybody gets lost in the beautiful Patriot passing game but they can run the ball too. They are a team that can pass without the threat of a run and, oh yeah, here’s a 15 yard run by Laurence Maroney.

I like the Jacksonville secondary who may play pretty physical, lead by Rashean Mathis and rookie Reggie Nelson. Unfortunately Nelson might not play or will be limited because of a thigh injury. I like a more aggressive approach to the Patriots because Tom Brady will pick you apart regardless, so you might as well take some risks.

A key for the Jacksonville defense will be stopping the run with their front 7. Bringing an extra guy in the box is a recipe for disaster. If they can control the ground game with 7 guys and out muscle the New England receivers, they’ll have a fighting chance.

In the final game of the regular season New England barely outlasted a surprisingly anxious Giants team going for the win. The Patriots showed great character in pulling out a hard fought win. I expect New England to play even better in this game, at home but against a team that matches up better than New York.

The Jaguars will be yet another reminder that going undefeated will never be mistaken for a stroll in the park. In fact, in my opinion with 3 games left the betting odds should be against it. But the Patriots know what they are up against and should survive this round. They are just too good to lose this soon, even though it’s a tough match-up for them.

New England – 30  Jacksonville - 24