By: Joe Shlabotnik

Even though the Jacksonville Jaguars improved to 3-1 to conclude preseason play with a 24-14 win over Atlanta, the Jaguars still have changes that need to be worked on to be successful in this upcoming NFL season.

Jacksonville’s quarterback, Blaine Gabbert, has not shown significant growth on the field. His usual trend of overthrowing receivers when looking to deliver the long ball has not faded and unfortunately, his speed is not exceptional. Gabbert does appear competent in the pocket however, and hitting a receiver ten to fifteen yards away should be his “go-to”. A successful quarterback must be able to lead and carry his team on the field; with the component of hitting targeted receivers on deep passes missing, Jacksonville will not be as strong as they could be.

This leads to the discussion of the hold out of Maurice Jones-Drew. Because the Jaguars rely heavily on their running game, they need Jones-Drew to return.  In Jacksonville’s game against Atlanta, Rashad Jennings carried the ball 11 times over in just over a quarter. If this pace of 11 carries per quarter continues, Jacksonville will need more than just two or three suitable running backs in order to accomplish their suitable game plan.

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Written by Jessica K.

Growing up in a household where football consumed much of our family’s time, my passion for the sport grew quickly and immensely. My father was a Division 1 college offensive coordinator for many years.

Being nearly absorbed by the sport, football displayed what hard work and competition was. It inspired me to become involved with many different sports at a very early age and aided in the development of my dream of becoming a sideline reporter for the NFL.

I completed an internship at News Channel 3 in Kalamazoo, Michigan assisting the Sports Director, worked as a color commentator for Cornerstone University women’s basketball and was a High School Sports Reporter for MLive Media Group.

I played softball at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and finished my softball career at Cornerstone University in Grand Rapids, Michigan where I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications. Despite living in Michigan nearly my entire life, I am a fan of the Minnesota Vikings and the New Orleans Saints. I love to run, watch sports, spend time with my friends and family, BUT I live for NFL Sundays.