The Jacksonville Jaguars have endured a difficult season in 2024, entering this game with a 2-8 record. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence, a key figure in the Jaguars’ rebuilding process, has experienced an inconsistent year, throwing for 2,004 yards with 11 touchdowns and six interceptions. Despite his struggles, Lawrence has shown flashes of his potential with key connections to wide receivers Christian Kirk and Calvin Ridley, who have been reliable targets, combining for over 1,200 receiving yards. The running game, led by Travis Etienne Jr., has been productive as well, with Etienne rushing for 680 yards and five touchdowns. However, turnovers and red-zone inefficiencies have hampered the offense, which currently averages 21.7 points per game, ranking 21st in the league. Offensive line protection has been inconsistent, leading to pressure on Lawrence and impacting his ability to make plays downfield. The Jaguars’ offensive scheme, orchestrated by coordinator Press Taylor, focuses on spreading the field and utilizing Lawrence’s arm strength. Nevertheless, converting opportunities into points has been an area that requires improvement if Jacksonville hopes to compete effectively in this matchup. On defense, the Jaguars have struggled significantly, allowing an average of 28 points per game, which ranks them near the bottom of the league. The pass defense has been a particular weak spot, surrendering 264.3 passing yards per game, ranking 31st. Cornerback Tyson Campbell and safety Andre Cisco have provided solid individual performances, but overall, the secondary has been vulnerable, especially against deep passes. The defensive front has had some success, with former first-round pick Travon Walker leading the team with seven sacks. Despite this, Jacksonville’s inability to consistently pressure opposing quarterbacks has allowed teams to exploit their secondary. The Jaguars’ linebacker corps, anchored by Foye Oluokun, has been a positive factor in run defense. Oluokun, one of the league leaders in tackles, has demonstrated strong instincts and an ability to read plays. However, even with these standout performances, the unit’s inconsistency in containing explosive plays has led to frequent defensive breakdowns. Defensive coordinator Mike Caldwell has emphasized aggressiveness in forcing turnovers, but the team has struggled to execute consistently. On special teams, kicker Brandon McManus has been reliable, providing a steady presence in field goal situations. However, the Jaguars’ return game has lacked big-play potential, and field position has often been a disadvantage, placing added pressure on the offense and defense. For the Jaguars to have a chance against the Lions, they will need a balanced, mistake-free offensive approach and an improved performance from their defense. Lawrence’s ability to connect with his top receivers and effectively utilize Etienne in the ground game will be critical in sustaining drives and keeping the Lions’ high-powered offense off the field. Defensively, Jacksonville must find a way to limit Detroit’s explosive passing game and pressure Jared Goff to force mistakes. In a matchup where the Lions are heavily favored, Jacksonville’s keys to success will center on discipline, reducing turnovers, and making critical stops on defense.