Panthers (2-13) at Jaguars (8-7)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, EverBank Field, Jacksonville, Florida TV: CBS
Spread (BetMGM):
Jaguars by 6.5
Panthers’ keys to victory: Finding consistent running room for RB Chuba Hubbard could be a challenge, so it’ll largely be up to QB Bryce Young and his underwhelming wide receiver corps to keep the offense on the field against the Jaguars. Where Carolina can really take advantage is on the other side of the ball against a Jacksonville offense that can be careless with the football. If the pass-rushing duo of DE Brian Burns and LB Frankie Luvu can generate pressure, the Panthers could force a turnover or two to swing momentum in their favor.
Jaguars’ keys to victory: The up-and-down Jacksonville offense can’t afford to make mistakes that keep Carolina close. An efficient passing performance from QB Trevor Lawrence and a balanced attack that brings RB Travis Etienne Jr. and TE Evan Engram into the mix should be enough to put the Panthers out of reach. On defense, the Jaguars need to take advantage of a porous Carolina offensive line. If OLBs Josh Allen and Travon Walker get home consistently, it could be a long day for the Panthers.
Matchup to watch: Panthers WR DJ Chark vs. Jaguars CB Tyson Campbell. Once a Pro Bowler in Jacksonville, Chark has struggled to stay healthy and productive since his departure. In his first game back at EverBank Stadium, it’ll largely be up to Campbell to keep the deep threat from finding chunk plays.
Who wins? December hasn’t gone great for the Jaguars, but they are too good to be dragged down by the Panthers in a must-win game.
Jaguars, 23-14