Two AFC South teams completing disappointing seasons and facing uncertain futures meet when the Indianapolis Colts welcome the Jacksonville Jaguars. Jacksonville won the first matchup between the two teams, 37-34, on Oct. 6. In the rematch, Indianapolis is favored by more than a field goal at home.
How to watch Jaguars at Colts
A humiliating loss to the lowly Giants in Week 17 put the Colts out of the AFC playoff picture once again. Meanwhile, despite one of the NFL’s worst records, the Jaguars continue to compete in close games.
For the third time in four seasons, the Colts failed to win late in the regular season with a postseason appearance on the line. Allowing 45 points in a must-win game against New York put coach Shane Steichen’s and general manager Chris Ballard’s job security in the spotlight entering the final week.
If Anthony Richardson (questionable) is healthy, he will start at quarterback after missing Week 17 and giving veteran Joe Flacco the start. Richardson could use positive momentum heading into 2025 against a Jaguars pass defense that is last in the NFL in multiple categories.
Jacksonville also faces decisions about head coach Doug Pederson and general manager Trent Baalke. While the Colts were publicly eviscerated by media personality and former punter Pat McAfee, Jacksonville’s staff has maintained public optimism during the lost season. The Jaguars are notably 3-9 in one-score games — tied for the most such losses in one season in the Super Bowl era, according to ESPN Stats and Information.
Points are difficult to find for Jacksonville with backup QB Mac Jones under center. Coming off a win over Tennessee, the Jaguars will continue to force throws to dynamic rookie receiver Brian Thomas Jr.
After two more touchdowns against the Titans, Thomas has five TDs from Jones over the last five weeks.
Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Indianapolis Colts odds
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(Photo of Brian Thomas Jr.: Mike Carlson / Getty Images)