New England Patriots (10-4) at Jacksonville Jaguars (2-12) Where: EverBank Field (grass) When: Sunday, 1 p.m. (CBS) Last time out: Dec. 12, 2009: Patriots 35, Jaguars 7 Series record: Patriots hold an 8-1 edge Spread: Patriots by 14.5 Five things to watch Reaction to Ridley: New England coach Bill Belichick has made it clear over the last few years that...
New England Patriots (10-4) at Jacksonville Jaguars (2-12)
Where: EverBank Field (grass)
When: Sunday, 1 p.m. (CBS)
Last time out: Dec. 12, 2009: Patriots 35, Jaguars 7
Series record: Patriots hold an 8-1 edge
Spread: Patriots by 14.5
Five things to watch
Reaction to Ridley: New England coach Bill Belichick has made it clear over the last few years that he has little patience for players that fail to protect the football. This could put Stevan Ridley in a bad spot. The second-year back has fumbled in consecutive weeks and was seated on the bench for most of the second half during last week’s game against the San Francisco 49ers. After committing a similar sin last year, Ridley did not see the field in New England’s final two playoff games. Belichick could turn a blind eye and give Ridley another shot, or it could mean an increased role for undrafted rookie Brandon Bolden.
Special teams recovery: If this one is about tuning up some problem areas, then fans should keep an eye on how the special teams units rebound from a poor performance against the 49ers. New England gave up a 31-yard gain on a fake punt and later a 62-yard kickoff return. Those are mistakes that can’t happen during the playoffs if New England hopes to get back to the Super Bowl.
Starter usage: With a potential first-round bye l theoretically within reach, this one may not come into effect until next week’s finale against the Miami Dolphins. But the team has battled injuries all season and would welcome a full and healthy cast for the playoffs. Tom Brady missed a practice this week with a sore shoulder and it’s doubtful that Rob Gronkowski will return from a broken forearm this week, and he could even be left on the shelf for the finale if there is nothing at stake. Still, the starters will almost certainly play, but will Belichick pump the brakes if the team builds a big lead?
Justin Francis: At this point in the season, with almost all mysteries solved, rookie defensive lineman Justin Francis remains an unknown but exciting possibility. Playing 39 snaps against the 49ers and Texans over the last two weeks, Francis showed good burst off the edge. This could be a good opportunity to see if there’s anything more he can provide.
How the Patriots respond: That’s the big theme this week. The Patriots are heading into a situation that could very well prove to be a trap. After giving everything the last two weeks, to play the Jaguars is somewhat of a dud. If their state of mind isn’t right, the Pats could end up getting burned.
Prediction: There are some interesting subplots this week, but you have to look hard to find them. This game should be a blowout and the Patriots will likely look to take some frustrations out on Jacksonville. Patriots 34, Jacksonville 17.