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Thursday, September 29, 2022

Moeller: Just Three Games Into NFL Season Jaguars Look to be Pretty Good

By Jeff Moeller

JACKSONVILLE (Florida Sports Wire) - Go ahead, pinch yourself. If you’re 50 or over, you know what I mean.

If you’re under 50, it’s time for a reality check.

Yes, your Jacksonville Jaguars currently – and can be – a good football team this season. It is only three games into the season, and it may appear early to jump on the bandwagon of a 2-1 team that entered the season winning only four of their last 29 games.


Add to that a string of 18 consecutive losses on the road.

They met an early litmus test last week when they dominated the Los Angeles Chargers in the exquisite confines of SoFi Stadium, one of the league’s centerpieces. 

Chargers’ quarterback Justin Herbert played despite a bad rib problem, and it looked like the Jags would fall into the same trap again. Start off strong and then eventually have breakdowns that would result in a lopsided loss.

However, it didn’t happen.


You got a different feeling at halftime even with the Jags holding a slim 16-7 lead at the half. Something was different, and Jags’ fans were confident. They were right, as the game turned into a 38-10 rout. 

A big part of their confidence has been based on the play of second-year quarterback Trevor Lawrence, who has looked like a seasoned pro despite 20 starts, and first-year head coach Doug Pederson, who hasn’t taken long to instill a winning pedigree. 

When you have watched Lawrence this season starting from the preseason, you see a more confident quarterback who is truly patient and disciplined, two qualities you didn’t see on a consistent basis last year.

In the wins over Indianapolis and Los Angeles – as well as the loss to Washington – Lawrence has been poised and creative. On numerous occasions, he has swirled around and away from the flow of plays to either pick up some yardage on his own or find some favorite targets like Christian Kirk or Zay Jones downfield.

Lawrence has had time to throw and has been sacked just twice – both in the opener against Washington - and has been relatively untouched the past two games. He has six touchdowns and just one interception so far along the way.

 

This is the Lawrence the Jags and the league expected to be one of the next, great mainstays, mentioned in the same breath as Tom Brady. Lawrence is not there yet, but he seems headed in that direction.

He has become the stabilizer for a franchise that has spun its wheels the past few years since the 2019 season when the Jags had a 6-10 record. Two year prior, they were in the AFC Championship game behind Blake Bortles and gave the Patriots all they could handle in a 24-20 loss.

As for Pederson, he was a coach some teams were hesitant to take another chance hiring because of a fallout with Carson Wentz. Pederson took the Eagles to their first championship that still has life in Philadelphia, but there were those who foolishly believed Nick Foles was behind the charge (Foles is a backup in Indianapolis).

Shahid Khan decided to take the chance on Pederson when Byron Leftwich, Bill O’Brien, and Jim Caldwell all appeared to be one of the public’s choices.

Pederson has brought a sense of quiet professionalism and confidence that has streakingly spread through the team and the front office. Think back to the restless state of the team and the environment a year ago and compare for yourself.

There is a good mix of some season veterans, young veterans and rising rookies that have been the perfect mesh.


Despite his critics, general manager Trent Baalke has found the right pieces. Keep an eye on top picks linebackers Travon Walker and Devin Lloyd, who have done their part to jumpstart the defense.

There are others, but Lawrence and Pederson will lead the way.

The Jags will have another major test this Sunday when they take on the 3-0 Eagles in Philadelphia. With Pederson returning, the storylines will be easy to fill.

But, you can go into this weekend with a good feeling about this team. A complete breakdown would be shocking and troubling. A competitive battle should be expected.

You may have to pinch yourself or have another reality check Monday morning.

Monday, September 26, 2022

Bonts: Gators Lucky Vols Were Asleep at the Wheel in Thwarted Comeback

KNOXVILLE - Not sure what happened.

Jaylen Wright’s touchdown run gave Tennessee a 38-21 lead over Florida with 7:55 remaining in Saturday’s SEC matchup in Knoxville

The Tennessee defense must have thought the Gator was in the bag.

Two Florida touchdowns and a successful onside kick with 17 seconds to play the Gators were on the verge on beating the Volunteers again.

“Yeah, make a play. We did not want them to sit back there and pat it all day long and find a way to get off the football field and come away with a win,” said Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel. “Obviously, the hands team must find a way to come up with that one on the second attempt, and there are some things we could do better. Clock management could change that too.”

After letting Florida back in the game Kamal Hadden intercepted a pass from Gators QB Anthony Richardson on the final play of the game to seal the victory.

Richardson is being heralded as coming of age as a starting QB in the late rally. His passes, his timing, his leadership. Not his driving, but okay. We get it.

Florida took the ball 75 yards in 10 plays on its next possession to make it an 11-point game. Running back Montrell Johnson Jr. carried the ball around the left end from five yards out, and a two-point conversion pass attempt fell incomplete to leave the Gators trailing, 38-27, with 4:49 left on the clock.

 After Tennessee recovered the ensuing onside kick at its own 49, the Vol offense milked the clock down to 1:11 before turning it over on downs.

Florida took advantage, scoring with 17 seconds left on a three-yard pass from Richardson to receiver Ricky Pearsall. Richardson's two-point pass attempt was off target, leaving the score 38-33 Vols with 17 seconds remaining.

Florida attempted another onside kick, and this time the Gators recovered at their own 47 with 16 ticks left. Three plays later, however, Hadden eliminated the threat with a game-ending pick.

What I don’t get is the Jimmy Hoffa act by the Tennessee defense with eight minutes to play in the game. It disappeared. Hadden’s timely pick notwithstanding.

Was it a prevent defense, the scheme or over confidence? That is something the undefeated Vols need to figure out.

Tennessee is idle next weekend before returning to action on Oct. 8, when the Vols face LSU at Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge, La.

Florida plays Eastern Washington this week in Gainesville. They will take out their frustration of being 0-2 in the SEC East on them.

The Eagles lost 50-31 at home against Buffalo on Saturday and were obliterated 70-14 two weeks ago at Oregon in their only crack against an FBS opponent this season.

(Mike Bonts covers the SEC)

Sunday, September 25, 2022

Jumbo Shrimp: Jacksonville Cruises to Win over Charlotte in Final Home Game of 2022

 JACKSONVILLE (SportsDay)  – An eight-run second inning including a three-run homer by Ryan Lavarnway guided the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp to victory over the Charlotte Knights 12-3, Sunday at 121 Financial Ballpark in front of 5,190 fans.

The Jumbo Shrimp (78-68) brought 11 hitters to the plate in the second as they jumped out to a huge lead. Ryan Lavarnway singled and went to third a double by Luis Aviles Jr. 

Following a ground out, Bryson Brigman drove in both runners with a double to put Jacksonville ahead 2-0. 

Dalvy Rosario tripled in the ensuing at-bat, scoring Brigman for a 3-0 lead. A double by Brian Miller plated Rosario, and a single by Ray-Patrick Didder drove in Miller, increasing the lead to 5-0. Jesús Sánchez singled putting two runners on base, and Lavarnway (11) blasted a three-run homer, making the score 8-0.

The Knights (58-89) responded in the top of the fourth inning. With one out, Carlos Pérez (21) hit a solo homer, giving Charlotte their first run of the day. A single by Adam Haseley and a double by Blake Rutherford put two runners on, and Xavier Fernández knocked a two-run single to cut the deficit to 8-3.

Jacksonville added insurance runs in the bottom of the eighth inning. Ynmanol Mariñez knocked his first Triple-A hit and a double from Rosario put runners on second and third. Miller doubled, plating both runners to push the lead to 10-3. 

Didder was hit by a pitch, and Sánchez reached on a fielder’s choice. A walk by Lavarnway loaded the bases, and Troy Johnston was hit by a pitch that brought in a run. pushed Aviles Jr. singled in the next at-bat to widen the Jumbo Shrimp lead 12-3.

LHP Matthew Kent (W, 9-11) put Jacksonville in a position to win with six innings and four strikeouts. Parker Bugg, Cole Sulser and Anthony Maldonado dazzled with three scoreless frames, allowing just one hit and one walk with six strikeouts.

Jacksonville heads to Norfolk to end the season with a three-game series on Monday at 6:35 p.m. RHP Elieser Hernández (4-3, 3.73 ERA) starts for the Jumbo Shrimp against RHP Grayson Rodriguez (2-0, 0.89 ERA). Coverage begins at 6:20 p.m. on MiLB.tv, ESPN 690 and ESPN690.com.

Moeller: Trip to LA is a Golden Opportunity for Jaguars

By Jeff Moeller

JACKSONVILLE (Florida Sports Wire) - Call it fate. Call it karma.

However, you also have to take advantage of opportunities.

There is something about this Jaguars team that had a 24-0 shutout over AFC South rival Indianapolis last week at TIAA Field.

The thoughts are running rampant that the Jags could capture the division title. 

The Jags excelled in all three phases of the game, and proved to themselves that they can be a productive team. They did take advantage of an out-of-sync Colts, who never truly got on track and out of their own way.

That’s what good teams do. The Jags did it..can they have an encore?

Yes, one big win does not a contender make. This team could still finish with four wins. 

Yet, a trip to Los Angeles to play the Chargers Sunday afternoon can bring them around the bend a little further. 

This one is about opportunity. 

Chargers’ stud quarterback Justin Herbert was still very questionable to line up under center because of bruised ribs. Ditto for wide receiver Keenan Allen, and tight end Donald Parham, both of them dealing with hamstring issues.

The Chargers’ line is a unit riddled with nagging injuries, and there is concern whether they will be intact for the 4:05 kickoff.

The key for the Jags Sunday will be their ability to run the ball behind James Robinson and Travis Eitenne. They combined for 84 yards against Indy, but more importantly, Robinson proved he can be a workhorse once again.

A running game has to be effective to negate the edge rush attack from Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack. Along with Robinson and Etienne, tackles Cam Robinson and Jawaan Taylor will need to be on their game. The Jags’ O-Line allowed only one sack last week.

Trevor Lawrence had a stellar outing last week and played with poise and confidence. There wasn’t any hesitation in his delivery, and he carefully calculated his moves in a 23-for-32, 235- yard, one TD performance.

The Jags’ defense did their part with their aggressive play that limited the Colts to 249 yards of total offense.

Head coach Doug Pederson already has proved that he can be a difference.

It can all add up to a productive afternoon in Los Angeles. Early Sunday evening, we will know if the Jaguars have fate and karma on their side, or will they fall back into their inadequacies.

This one will be a golden opportunity.  


Saturday, September 24, 2022

Recap: Jacksonville Surrenders Late Lead in 7-5 Loss to Charlotte

(SportDay Photo by Nancy Beecher)
JACKSONVILLE (SportsDay) – Luis Aviles Jr. and Ray-Patrick Didder each blasted a home run on Friday but the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp fell to the Charlotte Knights 7-5 in front of 8,179 at 121 Financial Ballpark.

After falling behind 5-4 in the sixth, Charlotte (57-88) regained the lead with a rally in the seventh. With one out, Blake Rutherford walked and advanced to second on a passed ball. 

Two batters later, Craig Dedelow walked and a wild pitch by Jacksonville (77-67) reliever Will Stewart (L, 6-5) put runners on second and third. Zach Remillard walked and Mark Payton followed with a bases-clearing double to flip the game 7-5 in favor of the Knights.

The Knights broke the game open in the second inning. Lenyn Sosa (9) launched a solo home run to lead off the inning to give Charlotte a 1-0 advantage.

The Knights built up their lead with a run in the third. Zach Remillard was hit by a pitch to start the inning and Mark Payton drew a walk. Two batters later, Yolbert Sánchez knocked a base hit, scoring Remillard from second to push the lead to 2-0.

The Jumbo Shrimp broke through on the scoreboard in the bottom of the third. Aviles Jr. (7) walloped a solo home run off Charlotte starter Scott Blewett (W, 1-1) to cut the deficit to 2-1.

In the fourth inning, Rutherford doubled and went to third on a bloop double from Xavier Fernandez. Dedelow was hit by a pitch, loading the bases. Two batters later, with the bases still loaded, Payton hit a sac fly to push the Charlotte advantage to 3-1.

The Knights added to their lead in the fifth inning. With one out, Sosa and Haseley singled. An errant pickoff attempt allowed runners to move up to second and third before Rutherford smacked a single to score Sosa and give Charlotte a 4-1 lead.

Jacksonville took their first lead of the day with a huge sixth inning. Aviles Jr. led off with a double and scored two batters later on a base hit from Brian Miller. Didder (2) followed with a mammoth two-run home run to tie the game at four. Jesús Sánchez smacked the fourth hit of the inning and went to third on a base hit from Willians Astudillo. With runners at the corners, Blewett balked to score Sánchez as the Jumbo Shrimp took the lead 5-4.

Jacksonville continues their series with Charlotte on Saturday at 6:35 p.m. The Knights will hand the ball to LHP Kyle Kubat (7-4, 5.16 ERA). Coverage begins at 6:20 p.m. ET on MiLB.tv and the Jumbo Shrimp online stream.

Saturday’s game is the final Saturday giveaway of the season. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. and the first 2,000 fans through the gates will receive a Jumbo Shrimp Beach Bag Cooler presented by Ascension St. Vincent’s. It’s also Miami Nights at the ballpark and the Jumbo Shrimp will be wearing their Miami Nights jerseys that are currently up for auction on www.jaxshrimp.com. 

Monday, September 19, 2022

Moeller: Positive Vibes from Shutout Win for Jaguars Against AFC South Rival

Colts had a hard time handling Josh Allen (41). (Photo by Nancy Beecher)
By Jeff Moeller

JACKSONVLLE (Florida Sports Wire) - The perfect game..at least the first half.

That’s what occurred for the Jaguars in their 24-0 shutout against the Colts Sunday at TIAA Field. What everyone was waiting for with Trevor Lawrence at the helm finally happened. 

New head coach Doug Pederson has been playing his part.

Remember the date. Sept. 18, 2022. In the future, it could be a cornerstone date. (Think 2024 season.)

The Jags were perfect in all three phases of their game. For the most part, the second half was just as good as the first half. If they could stuff it all in a bottle, they would.  But the NFL offers plenty of chances.

The offense behind Lawrence was precise and efficient as it could possibly be. The defense, led by a cast of characters, clamped down with highlight reel plays that kept the hapless Colts out of the end zone.

It’s true, the Colts were out of sync the entire afternoon, but the Jags’ defense registered five sacks on Matt Ryan and kept running back Jonathan Taylor handcuffed with 54 yards rushing.

The Jags’ “D” also picked off Ryan three times, allowed 218 total yards, and stymied them with a 2-for-10 third down conversion rate.

Lawrence put on a clinic the opening half with dink and dunk passes up and down the field, connecting on 14 of 17 for 137 and finishing the day completing 25-of-30 for 235 yards with a pair of scores.

Running back James Robinson completed the scheme with 64 of the team’s 93 total yards. The offense ran 37 running plays and 30 passing plays. They held the ball for 18:30 in the opening half and 38:15 for the game.

The offensive line play was crisp and gave Lawrence plenty of time. They didn’t allow a sack and just two hits on Lawrence.

The rain showers that fell on the announced crowd of 58, 360 brightened at half time with the Jags holding a 17-0 lead from a late second-quarter 52-yard field goal with plenty to spare from Riley Patterson.  

It was a perfect script…like those games dating back to the 10-6 team in 2017, and the Coughline teams of the 1990s.

Yes, it was a great triumph to savor for a few days. More importantly, though, it could be a statement win and initial brick in the foundation the franchise has been seeking since Tom Coughlin was here.

Pederson confirmed Sunday that he can be the man for the job. One win does not a great head coach make, but a win like this one can help him go far.

Pederson already restored a sense of confidence and structure to the franchise, one that was recently fractured by Urban Meyer. There was much healing that needed to be done, and Pederson has brought a sense of relief.

The smiles and the sense of euphoria in and around the game’s end helped prove the case. Even the postgame interview room had an upbeat undercurrent.

Again, yes, this is one game for a franchise that has won 16 games in the last five seasons. The Jags will face a stiff test in Los Angeles next Sunday against the Chargers. 

Still, Lawrence is still the face of the franchise, and Pederson is now the anchor.

Together, they helped show winning football can be accomplished. Now, it’s time for a few more encore this season and beyond.

(Jeff Moeller is a SportsDay columnist and reporter covering the NFL and other sports.


Sunday, September 18, 2022

NFL Final Update: Jacksonville 24, Indianapolis 0

(Photos by Nancy DeLander Beecher/SportsDay)
By Mike Bonts

JACKSONVILLE (Florida Sports Wire) - Christian Kirk caught two touchdown passes as the Jaguars (1-1) got on the winning track Sunday with a convincing 24-0 NFL win over Indianapolis (0-1-1).

Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence was 25 of 30 passing for 235 yards. James Robinson rushed for 60 yards.

The game was never in doubt. The visitors couldn't get their offense going. 

They were 2 of 8 on third downs. And gained only 54 yards on the ground.

Colts' QB Matt Ryan was sacked five times, twice by outside linebacker Josh Allen. He threw three interceptions.

Ryan finished 16 of 30 passing for 195 yards.

Offensively Kirk caught his second touchdown of the game from Lawrence in the third quarter. The five-yard reception came on a 92-yard drive.

The Jaguars increased their lead in the second quarter on Robinson's 37-yard run up the middle, to make it 14-0 Riley Patterson kicked a 52-yard field goal. Lawrence was 14 of 17 passing for 137 yards at the half.

The Colts took the opening  kickoff. But after a making two first downs on pass plays, saw their drive stall when Ryan's pass was picked off by Rayshawn Jenkins inside the Jaguars 30.


The Jaguars took over at their own 32. Lawrence eventually connected on an eight yard pass to Zay Jones and a first down at the Indy 39. Four plays later Lawrence threw a 10-yard TD pass to Kirk. 

Robinson ran for 54 yardson 10 carries in the first half.




Recap: USF Bulls Nearly Down No. 18 Florida In Wild 31-28 Game In The Swamp

Photo by Mary Holt/USF Athetics
GAINESVILLE (SportsTicker) – The USF football (1-2) team gave No. 18 Florida (2-1) all in wanted in a wild game the Gators held on to win, 31-28, before 88,496 fans at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville on a Saturday night.

The third-largest crowd USF has ever played in front of nearly witnessed one of the biggest wins in program history as head coach Jeff Scott’s Bulls ran for 286 yards, totaled 402 yards of offense and kept Gator quarterback Anthony Richardson in check in a game that wasn’t decided until a missed 49-yard field goal attempt with 23 seconds to play.

The Bulls outscored the Gators 15-7 in the second half, outgained the Gators 402-329 and held a 28-24 lead with 11:14 to play, but a couple miscues and a late Florida touchdown drive prevented the upset.

Sophomore running back Brian Battie ran for a career-high 150 yards and a touchdown and junior quarterback Gerry Bohanon added 102 and a touchdown on the ground as USF’s offensive line helped the Bulls to the most rushing yards Florida has given up this season, including 216 in the first half after the Gators had given up a total of 22 first half rushing yards against their first two opponents.

Linebacker Dwayne Boyles and cornerback Aamaris Brown got big interceptions for a USF defense that forced the Gators into two turnovers and two three-and-outs in their first four possessions of the second half.

Leading 24-13 at the half, Florida took the opening kickoff of the second half and moved to midfield before Boyles picked Richardson off and returned it 37 yards to the UF18. The Bulls moved the ball on three runs, scoring on a 6-yard Bohanon dart right up the middle. 

USF went for two on the point after and converted on a trick play with Sean Atkins hitting Xavier Weaver in the back of the endzone to cut the UF lead to 24-21.

The USF defense forced a three-and-out on UF’s next possession and the first punt of the game ensued. The Bulls had to punt it back on their possession, but the defense rose to the occasion again forcing another Gator three-and-out and getting the ball back on USF’s 49 after a 20-yard return by Weaver.

The Bulls converted their second crucial 4th and 1 of the game, this time with Bohanon making a two-yard carry, and then drove to the UF1 where Michel Dukes finished an 11-play, 51-yard drive with a 1-yard dive to the right pylon to give the Bulls a 28-24 lead with 11:14 to play.

Florida took the kickoff and drove 70 yards to the USF5 before Brown stepped in front of a Richardson pass to the corner and picked it off. The touchback gave the Bulls the ball on their own 20 with 7:50 to play.

On a third-and-11, Bohanon was pressured and forced a late pass that was intercepted by Tre’Vez Johnson at the USF 28. The Gators capitalized with Travis Etienne running the ball four times and scoring on a three-yard plunge for a 31-28 lead with 5:00 to play.

The Bulls weren’t done as Bohanon and Battie moved the ball on the ground and Bohanon hit Weaver for a 7-yard gain. USF drove to the UF19 and had 2nd-and-6 when the shotgun snap went array and the Bulls fell on it at the UF33. 

Facing 4th-and-18, the Bulls sent Spencer Shrader out to attempt a 49-yard tying field goal with 23 seconds to play, but the kick went wide right and the Gators celebrated.

USF’s offensive line looked strong from the start as the Bulls posted 216 yards rushing in the first half and gave Bohanon time in the pocket. 

But two costly turnovers and some untimely penalties on USF helped Florida take a 24-13 lead to the locker room after a highly entertaining first half that saw USF lead in offensive yardage, 272-204. 

USF scored on three of its five drives and had a fumble and pick-six on the other two, while Florida scored on all three of its full possessions, taking a knee to end the half on its last.

The Bulls took the opening kickoff and moved the ball to the UF41 before Weaver fumbled on a wide receiver screen. With The Swamp crowd roaring for early points, the Bulls defense stiffened and forced a 32-yard Gators’ field goal.

The Bulls offense returned to the field and immediately responded, getting a big 21-yard gain on a draw to Battie on a 3rd-and-18, a 23-yard rumble from Jaren Mangham, and another 12-yard touchdown run from Battie to take the lead. The Bulls went 80 yards in 12 plays and led 7-3 with 1:21 to play in the first quarter.

After the first quarter break, Florida handed off to Montrell Johnson Jr. on the first play of the second quarter and he ripped through the USF line for a 62-yard touchdown that gave Florida a 10-7 lead.

USF again responded, this time converting a big 4th-and-1 at its own 34 that extended a nine-play, 75-yard scoring drive. 

With the crowd roaring for the stop, Bohanon crept under center and then tossed a misdirection pitch to Battie who flew out of the backfield for a 51-yard gain up the sideline. The Bulls advanced the ball to the UF4 before the drive stalled and Shrader converted a 21-yard field goal to tie the game at 10.

Florida took the kickoff and methodically worked down the field for a 12-play, 88-yard touchdown drive that benefitted from a borderline pass interference call on Brown and a personal foul called on Matthew Hill after the USF defense had held the Gators well short on a 3rd-and-15 from the USF 18. 

One play later, Nay’Quan Wright scored on a 7-yard touchdown run for a 17-10 UF lead.

The Bulls took over after the kickoff and gained a first down, but on 1st and 10 from their own 35, Bohanon tried to fit a pass in to Holden Willis. Florida’s Jalen Kimber muscled his way in front of Willis, took the ball and raced to the endzone for a pick-six that gave the Gators a 24-10 lead.

Unfazed, the Bulls drove 43 yards in 12 plays and closed the half on a 49-yard field goal from Shrader to go to the locker room trailing 13-24.

Saturday, September 17, 2022

Jumbo Shrimp: Hernández Leads Jacksonville to Triple-A-Best 12th Shutout Victory

FILE photo by Jim Brady/SportDay
NASHVILLE (SportsTicker) – Elieser Hernández tossed 5.1 scoreless innings as the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp recorded their Triple-A-best 12th shutout in a 4-0 blanking of the Nashville Sounds on Friday from First Horizon Park.

Hernández (4-2) fanned eight in his 5.1 frames. His only trouble came in the sixth inning with Jacksonville (75-63) ahead 2-0. Nashville’s (83-55) Sal Frelick and Esteury Ruiz singled before Brice Turang walked to load the bases with nobody out.

Hernández struck out Jon Singleton looking before exiting after throwing 95 pitches. George Soriano came on and got Joey Wiemer to hit into a double play to escape the jam without any damage.

Soriano worked 2.2 frames before yielding to Eli Villalobos, who pitched a scoreless ninth to seal the shutout victory.

Jacksonville got on the board in their first at-bats. Erik González walked against Sounds starter Robert Gasser (1-1) to lead off the ballgame. After moving to second on a ground out, González scored on a base hit from Jesús Sánchez, who now has seven hits in the last two games.

With the same score, Victor Victor Mesa led off the fifth with a base hit. He stole second before Luis Aviles Jr. drew a walk. After a pair of outs, Mesa stole third before Bryson Brigman walked. A passed ball brought in Mesa to make it 2-0.

The Jumbo Shrimp added some insurance in the seventh. González singled and Brigman walked to begin the frame. Sánchez followed by lacing an RBI single. Willians Astudillo added a sacrifice fly for the game’s final margin at 4-0.

LHP Braxton Garrett (2-2, 3.07 ERA) starts in Saturday’s 8:05 p.m. ET contest for Jacksonville against Nashville RHP Caleb Boushley (11-2, 3.62 ERA). Coverage begins at 7:50 p.m. ET on ESPN 690 and ESPN690.com.

Sunday, September 11, 2022

Gameday Recap: Washington Commanders Score Late TD to Beat Jaguars

(Photo courtesy of Washingtin Commanders)
By Mike Bonts

Florida Sports Wire

Trailing by two points with less than two minutes left to play in the game, Washington drove from their own 10-yard line to the Jaguars 24.

Facing a third and 8, Commanders’ quarterback Carson Wentz found Jahan Dotson in end zone to seal a 28-22 comeback win over Jacksonville. Dotson scored his second TD of the afternoon.

On the Jaguars' ensuing drive, Darrick Forrest secured an interception to close out the game.

Jacksonville QB Trevor Lawrence was 24 of 42 for 275 yards with one interception.

The Jaguars No. 1 pick in the NFL Draft, Travon Walker, became the first rookie since T.J. Watt in 2017 to have an interception and a sack in his league debut.

Devin Lloyd recorded a team-high 11 tackles in his NFL debut. Jaguars' linebacker Josh Allen recorded four total tackles, including two tackles for loss, and one forced fumble. Allen forced a fumble in the second quarter recovered by Foye Oluokun.

Trailing 22-14, the Commanders’ Terry McLaurin hauled in a 49-yard touchdown. After a failed two-point conversion, the Commanders closed the gap, 22-20.

After jumping out to a 14-3 lead in the first half, Washington came back from an eight-point deficit.

Wentz completed 27-of-41 passes for 313 yards and four touchdowns but threw two interceptions on back-to-back plays.

Antonio Gibson was the top playmaker for the Commanders, leading the team in rushing and receiving with 130 total yards on 21 touches. Curtis Samuel finished the day with 72 total yards.

A 49-yard bomb from Lawrence to Christian Kirk put the Jaguars at the Washington 16-yard line. Kirk made six catches for 117 yards.

Three plays later, James Robinson scored his first touchdown of the season to close the gap. Robinson rushed 11 times for 66 yards.

A failed two-point conversion made the score 14-9.

After an interception by Wentz, Lawrence moved the offense 19 yards downfield to get in range for a 44-yard field goal, giving the visitors a 15-14 lead. 

On the first play on Washington’s next series Wentz pass was intercepted and returned to their 11-yard line. One play later, Robinson’s TD run made the score 22-14.

Washington outgained the Jaguars by seven yards, 390-383. Washington was able to string together drives on a more consistent basis, though, even with the lull in the second half. It converted 7-of-10 third downs compared to the Jaguars' 3-of-12.

The Jaguars host the AFC South rival Indianapolis Colts next Sunday. The Colts and Houston Texans played to a 20-20 tie.

Local Colleges: Savannah State Tigers Slash Edward Waters, 31-28

(Photo by Sarah Peacok)

 JACKSONVILLE (Florida Sports Wire) – In a battle of attrition, Savannah State and Edward Waters traded punch-for-punch on Saturday, but the Tigers held their will at the line to pick up their first win of the season.

Trailing by three points, Edward Waters started the final drive of the game on their own 29-yard line with two minutes to play in the fourth quarter. Six plays later, with a new set of downs and one minute to play, on Savannah State's 23-yard line, they looked poised to score.

Out of the shotgun, Tyler King rushed up the middle but lost the ball. Jonathan Glover was there to recover for Savannah State and help the Tigers to a 31-28 win over Edward Waters.

With the win, Savannah State evened the historic series at 12-12-4 and new coach Aaron Kelton earned his first win as a Tiger. It was the first conference win as well for the team since Edward Waters moved up from a provisional to a full member in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) this year.

"It feels awesome," Kelton said after the game. "I feel great for the guys, to get this off their back. It feels great to start our legacy. That's what we talked about with this team—what is our legacy going to be?"

The stat line for Saturday's game was nearly equal. Savannah State put up 238 yards of rushing to Edward Waters 218. The Tigers passed for 101 yards to the home team's 160. Penalties hurt both sides throughout the game. Savannah State had six penalties for 40 yards and Edward Waters had seven for 56 yards.

But Savannah State managed to put more points up in the first three quarters, and that became the deciding factor.

Jorge Gonzalez opened the scoring for Savannah State on the Tigers first drive of the game with a 27-yard field goal—his first of the season. On the subsequent drive, Edward Waters took their only lead of the game. King rushed in at the 7:05 mark for a touchdown, following a 0-play, 77-yard drive from the home team.

But before the quarter ended, Savannah State responded with their 10-play, 63-yard touchdown drive, capped by a 10-yard scoring dash from Jatavion Williams. Savannah State never again trailed, putting up another touchdown in the second and two more in the third.

Redshirt freshmen Jadon Adams started the second quarter for Savannah State, taking over quarterback duties for JT Hartage and Isaiah Robinson in the first quarter.

Following his breakout performance in Savannah State's opening loss last week, Adams again looked poised in the pocket. He connected on 4-of-8 passing attempts with two touchdown tosses to Brent Carr. He rushed eight times for 29 yards. His only hiccup came from two interceptions late in the game.

Shamarcus Poole remained the Tigers powerback, rushing 10 times for a 88 yards. Freshmen Joseph Hampton also had a productive night, rushing nine times for 47 yards.

On the other side of the ball, Tavare Brewton led Savannah State in tackles with six, followed by Kelvin Drummed with five.


NFL: Jaguars' Defensive Philosophy Will Be On Display in Washington

(SportsDay file photo by Nancy DeLander Beecher)
By Jeff Moeller

JACKSONVILLE (Florida Sports Wire) - Mike Caldwell spent two years working with Todd Bowles in Tampa Bay from 2019-21.

During their time together, Bowles was the team’s defensive coordinator, and Caldwell was the linebackers’ coach. He expressed his knowledge of the game had increased due to Bowles’ presence.

For Jones and Bowles, it always had been about the defense. More specifically, it was run defense.

This spring, Caldwell brought the same philosophy across the state to Jacksonville as the team’s new defensive coordinator under Doug Pederson. 

Caldwell will get to see his philosophy at work Sunday in the Jags’ opener in Landover, Md, to meet the Washington Commanders.

"That's the thing we hang our hat on – not just this Sunday, but every Sunday," stated Caldwell earlier this week. “There are more three receiver groupings in the league now. You don't find many fullbacks anymore.

"It's changed a little bit. You still need girth up front, and we have that, but you can sprinkle in pieces of strength and quickness and be able to get the job done."

Caldwell was an integral part of a unit in Tampa Bay that led the league in rushing defense (82.5 yards per game) and yards per carry (3.72).

In the preseason, the Jags under Caldwell responded. They allowed a total of 401 yards for an average carry of 3.5 yards in four games.

In their preseason, Washington rushed for 177 yards for an average of 2.6.

The Jaguars finished 23rd in the NFL in run defense in 2021, improving from 30th in 2020. They allowed 125.1 yards rushing per game last season, six times allowing 149 yards or more.

But the Jags will have to be prepared for quarterback Carson Wentz and running back Antonio Gibson, who rushed for 1,037 yards and averaged seven yards per carry last year.

Jags’ nose tackle Davon Hamilton states the defense has a bullseye on stopping the Commanders' running game.

"That's what's going to help us win the game this week and ultimately be successful throughout the year," Hamilton said. "That's what we have to do. Our preparation this year has been really good and we've really been working hard throughout camp until now to be as successful as we want to be and focus on the goals we want this year. You've got to go do it."

If they can’t stop the run, the passing game could be a problem. The Jags finished 29th in the league in sacks (26) and last in turnovers forced (nine) and interceptions (7) last year.

"We're going to go out and stop the run first, then let them play after that," Caldwell said. "That's their main focus, to go out there and handle the run. After that, we can pressure the quarterback."

Sunday afternoon, Caldwell will find out if it can work.


Saturday, September 10, 2022

SEC Recap: Swamped! No. 20 Kentucky Tops 12th-Ranked Florida

By Tim Letcher/UK

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Mark Stoops became Kentucky’s all-time winningest coach as No. 20 Kentucky topped 12th-ranked Florida 26-16 on Saturday night at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium.

It was the Kentucky defense that came up large all night long. The Cats held Florida to 279 yards of total offense and kept Florida’s talented quarterback Anthony Richardson in check. UK’s defense also came up with a pair of huge interceptions, both of which defined the outcome of Saturday’s win.

Kentucky (2-0) struggled offensively but made enough plays to get the win. Quarterback Will Levis connected on 13 of 24 through the air for 202 yards and a touchdown. Kavosiey Smoke carried the ball 14 times for 80 yards, most of which came in the second half.

Florida had the opening possession of the game but, after one first down, the Gators were forced to punt. On Kentucky’s first possession, the Cats went three-and-out, punting the ball back to Florida.

The Gators took over on their own 48 and quickly got into UK territory. However, the UK defense held, forcing Florida into a field goal attempt. Adam Mihalek converted the 39-yard attempt and the Gators grabbed a 3-0 lead with 10:03 left in the first quarter.

Kentucky would take the ensuing possession into Florida territory but the Gators were able to hold, forcing another UK punt. Florida would get a first down on the ensuing possession, but the Gators would be forced to punt.

The Cats would put together another drive as the first quarter was winding down. Levis connected with Dane Key for 16 yards, then Keaton Upshaw for 22, getting UK to midfield. The first quarter would come to an end with Florida leading 3-0.

Kentucky was forced into another punt early in the second quarter and Florida took over at its own 25. The Gators were forced to punt again and the Cats took over on their own 33.

The Cats would strike on the next possession. Levis hit Keaton Upshaw in the left flat for a 12-yard gain. Then Levis went deep, finding Key, who jumped and, with a defender draped all over him, made a tremendous catch for a touchdown. Matt Ruffolo added the PAT and UK led 7-3 with 11:36 left in the half.

Florida wasted no time in responding. The Gators got a 40-yard rush from Montrell Johnson to get into UK territory. But the UK defense stood tall after that, forcing a 50-yard field goal attempt from Mihalek. The kick was good and the Gators cut the UK lead to 7-6 with 10:01 to play in the half.

Kentucky got one first down on its next possession but two plays later, Levis was hit and Florida’s Gervon Dexter picked the ball out of the air for what was ruled an interception, giving UF the ball at the UK 34.

Florida would get into the red zone and would get into the end zone for the first time on an 11-yard touchdown run by Trevor Etienne. Florida would go for two and Richardson would connect with Etienne for the scoring, giving Florida a 14-7 advantage with 5:49 to play in the half.

The Cats went three-and-out on their next possession. And on fourth down, the snap went over the head of UK punter Colin Goodfellow, who chased the ball down and kicked it through the back of the end zone for a safety, giving Florida a 16-7 lead with 4:12 left in the half.

Florida took the next possession with a chance to blow the game open. Instead, on third and three, Richardson tried to go into the flat but UK’s Jordan Wright made a one-handed interception and returned it to the Florida six yard line.

It took four plays, but the Cats would punch it in, with Levis running the quarterback sneak up the middle to cut the Florida lead to 16-13. UK could not convert the PAT after a bad snap prevented the kick from happening.

Kentucky got the first possession of the second half but the Cats couldn’t get anything going and were forced to punt. Florida would follow suit, punting the ball back to the Cats after just three plays.

The Cats took the next possession and methodically marched onto the Florida side of the field. For the first time in the game, UK established the ground game, eventually getting inside the Florida 10 yard line. But Florida held and forced the Cats into a 24-yard field goal, which Ruffolo converted, to tie the game at 16-16 with 6:35 to play in the third quarter.

Florida was poised to answer on its next drive before the Cats defense made yet another huge play. With the Gators at the UK 39, Richardson threw a pass to the right that UK’s Keidron Smith intercepted. Smith had only Richardson between himself and the end zone, and the Ole Miss transfer negotiated that obstacle on his way to the end zone, giving Kentucky a 22-16 lead. Ruffolo added the PAT and UK led 23-16 with 3:25 remaining in the third quarter.

The Gators would make a first down on their next drive, but eventually would be forced to punt, giving UK the ball on its own 15 yard line with 1:27 left in the third. Kentucky would hold that 23-16 lead as the third quarter ended.

The fourth quarter opened with Levis hitting Chauncey Magwood for a 22-yard gain on third down. UK would get into Florida territory again, but the drive eventually stalled and the Cats were forced to punt, giving the Gators the ball on their own 20 with 11:05 remaining.

Florida would make a first down on its next possession before the UK defense stood tall once again. Then, on fourth and three from their own 40, Florida went for it, but Richardson’s pass was knocked away by UK’s Carrington Valentine, giving the Cats the ball in good field position.

Kavosiey Smoke would rush for 18 yards on first down, getting the Cats to the 22. But the drive stalled and Ruffolo came on for a 38-yard field goal attempt. The kick missed to the left and Florida got the ball back with 6:13 to play.

Florida did nothing with the ensuing possession, which was highlighted by a tackle for loss by Kentucky true freshman Deone Walker. Again, Florida went for it on fourth down and again, the Gators failed. UK took over at the Florida 24, looking to put the game away.

Kentucky was content to run the clock with a seven-point lead and less than four minutes to play. Smoke would rush for seven yards, getting the Cats into the red zone. On the next play, Smoke, with the push of his offensive line, gained 11, getting the ball to the Florida five yard line.

The Cats would run clock and would get a 26-yard field goal from Ruffolo with 1:24 to play, giving the Cats a 26-16 lead.

Florida could do nothing with its final possession and the Cats claimed the victory.

Recap: Jumbo Shrimp Win Third Straight Over Iowa Cubs

(SportsDay photo by Nancy DeLander Beecher)
JACKSONVILLE (SportsTicker) - Louis Aviles, Jr. hit a two run homer in the second inning and the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp went on to a 3-2 win over the Iowa Cubs Saturday night at 121 Financial Ballpark.

Jesus Sanchez scored on Victor Victor Mesa 's scarifice fly to center to make it 3-2.

Matt Mervis homered for the visitors. 

The Cubs second came on a throwing error by catcher Ryan Lavarnway. Jackson Frazier scored after stealing third on the errant throw.

Jacksonville starter Josh Rogers picked up the win.

The clubs meet again Sunday afternoon on the series finale at 3:05 p.m.

--- Mike Bonts

JU: Five Men's Lacrosse Players Selected in 2022 NLL Draft

TORONTO (SportsTicker) - Five Jacksonville University men's lacrosse players heard their named called Saturday evening in the 2022 National Lacrosse League Entry Draft, held at The Carlu in downtown Toronto.

The Dolphins had three of the first 12 selections in the draft, with Dylan Watson (#2 overall, Las Vegas Desert Dogs), Zack Deaken (#8 overall, New York Riptide), and Bo BowHunter (#12 overall, Halifax Thunderbirds) heard their names called early in the draft. 

Jacksonville was one of three schools with multiple selections in the first round.

In the third round, Troy Hettinger became the fourth 'Phins to hear his named selected, going 57th overall to the Philadelphia Wings. 

In the six round, Max Waldbaum rounded out the Jacksonville draft selections, going 103rd overall to the Philadelphia Wings.

Moeller: Jaguars’ NFL Season Begins Sunday at Washington

(File Photo by Nancy DeLander Beecher/SportsDay)
By Jeff Moeller

JACKSONVILLE (Florida Sports Wire) – The Jaguars open the season Sunday at Washington with a better than legitimate chance to win an opening game for the first time only since 2020. 

They beat Indianapolis then, 27-20, behind Gardner Minshew, but then went on to lose their next 15 consecutive games.

Hence, you got Trevor Lawrence. Maybe there was some Karma there.

Now, Lawrence is again center stage after a learning curve in his progress last season. Of course, he is the face of the franchise. There are some new leaders on the forefront but the Jags’ fate and fortune rest of Lawrence’s shoulders beginning Sunday.

Lawrence is ready to embark on a journey that could establish him as the quintessential Jaguar and even one of the quintessential Jacksonvilleites.

The pressure cooker atmosphere around him has subsided, but the expectations are still near boiling. 

There is a better sense of calm.

Lawrence had a memorable debut last season going 28-for-51 for 332 yards, throwing three touchdowns and three interceptions. Ironically, his 332-yard performance was his highest passing total all season.

Lawrence shouldn’t need that type of performance Sunday. Take out the three interceptions and it would help. The Jags have lost six of their last seven meetings against the Commanders.

But Lawrence has a reinforced core around him this time around. It begins with head coach Doug Pederson, who has restored a sense of stability, calmness, and confidence to the environment.

Running back Travis Etienee has returned from his knee injury and has looked impressive, notably with his sense of balance and his ability to stay low to the ground. Etienne can give the Jags an authentic breakaway threat out of the backfield.

Christian Kirk and Zay Jones have updated the receiving corps, and tight end Evan Engram may finally reach his expected potential, one factor he didn’t reach with the Giants. Fellow receiver Marvin Jones Jr. has emerged as a leader.

Running back James Robinson is back from his Achilles, and ready for workload.
The offensive line received a boost with veteran Brandon Scherff in the mix. His veteran presence has helped bring some more cohesiveness. The unit did look better in the preseason.

With Pederson and some new veterans brought on board, Lawrence has more tools to fine-tune the Jags’ offense that was ranked last in the league last year.

Pederson has gone out on a limb comparing Lawrence to Brett Favre. Fortunately for him, Lawrence understands it.

“It’s a cool thing for me, but I have to go out on the field and prove it,” reflected Lawrence on the comment at a recent team presser. “It doesn’t really change anything.”
Instead, Lawrence realizes his progress will be measured by the people around him.

“It’s exciting to see how far we have come within a year through my lens, “ he stressed. “Obviously, it’s different for everyone. You can see the improvement of guys that were here and how much better we have gotten. Obviously, the new additions have helped, and there is a new mindset. I think the culture has really flipped.”

If it has, Lawrence will be leading the way.

In his brief showing during the preseason, Lawrence showed some maturity, as he had a better pocket presence as well as running in the open field. He also showed the ability to change course and spin away from the flow and scramble up field. Lawrence seems to have a better ability to hit receivers on the run.

Don’t forget, though, this is still the learning process and the learning curve. Keep it all within reason.
Pederson, who’s treaded slowly in his first season, is ready for the good and the bad. He had memories of grooming Commanders’ quarterback Carson Wentz in his first and second years.

Although we’ve seen tremendous growth in Trevor, year two for Carson with us, there was another step, another leap there,” said Pederson. “Those are things we’re trying to get Trevor to. that level with Trevor in our system. You’re going to see it probably throughout the course of the season, but I think time will tell with him.”

Win or lose Sunday, the clock starts to tick.

Monday, September 5, 2022

ECHL: Forward Travis Howe Returns for a Third Season in Jacksonville

JACKSONVILLE – The Jacksonville Icemen, ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s New York Rangers and the AHL’s Hartford Wolf Pack announced today that the team has agreed to terms with forward Travis Howe for the 2022-2023 season.  

Howe, 28, returns to Jacksonville where he registered 11 points (3g, 8a) with 119 penalty minutes in 41 games played last season.   In addition, Howe scored a goal with 14 penalty minutes in eight postseason appearances this past spring.  

During the 2020-21 season, Howe recorded four points (1g, 3a) and 55 penalty minutes in 21 games split between the Icemen and the Fort Wayne Komets.  In total, the 6-4, 235-pound winger has accrued 42 points (15g, 27a) with 824 penalty minutes in 213 ECHL contests split between the Icemen, Komets, Utah Grizzlies and Greenville Swamp Rabbits from 2016-2022.   
"We're excited to have Travis back this season," said Icemen Head Coach Nick Luukko. "His game took tremendous strides last season, not from just the enforcer role, but he elevated his game to being more of a complete player. We look forward to him building on that again this season."  Howe made one appearance with the American Hockey League’s Tucson Roadrunners during the 2018-19 season.  In the 2015-16 season, Howe totaled six points (2g, 4a) with 199 penalty minutes in 41 games with the South Professional Hockey League’s Macon Mayhem and Mississippi RiverKings. During his final year of juniors, the Hull, Massachusetts resident recorded ten points with 246 penalty minutes in 50 games played with the Corpus Christi IceRays (NAHL). The following is a list of players that have agreed to terms with the Icemen for the 2022-2023 season:  
 
Goaltender
Charles Williams

DefensemenGarret CockerillVictor HadfieldBo HansonBrandon FortunatoBrendan LessJacob Panetta

Tim Theocharidis  

ForwardsJake HamacherBrendan HarrisTravis HoweLuke KeenanLuke LynchMatt SalhanySam SternschienMike SzmatulaJake Witkowski

The Icemen open the 2022-2023 season at home on Oct. 22 against the Orlando Solar Bears.