Williams Poses a Threat with Playmaking Ability, Putting Pressure on Jaguars' Defense

 

The Jaguars will need to make some adjustments after their late-game collapse against the Colts. Caleb Williams' ability to extend plays will stress the defense, and Jacksonville must perform at a high level on both sides of the ball to get the win.

The Jaguars will win if: They control time of possession. Though the Jaguars have yet to win this battle in 2024, their big-play ability has been a bright spot. However, this game might require sustained drives. If Jacksonville can capitalize on the Bears’ weak run defense, they should be able to control the tempo and take home the win.

The Bears will win if: They score 24 points or more. For Chicago, 21 points has been a magic number; their defense generally doesn’t allow more than that. The Jaguars, meanwhile, have given up a touchdown on the opening drive in four consecutive games. If the Bears can keep the scoreboard moving, they have a strong chance to win.

Martineau’s take: This is a close call, but based on trends, the Jaguars may have found a spark last week. They should be better than their 1-4 record suggests. While the Bears are solid, they’re not unbeatable, and missing key defensive players gives Jacksonville an edge. With tight end Evan Engram back, the Jaguars do enough to win their seventh straight October game, 27-22.