The Jacksonville Jaguars and Las Vegas Raiders meet in Week 16 in a game that means more to next season than this one. This matchup between AFC bottom-dwellers is essentially a toss-up for betting purposes.
How to watch Jaguars at Raiders
Jacksonville (3-11) and Las Vegas (2-12) are stumbling towards the finish line ahead of an offseason that should result in significant changes for both franchises. Both offenses are languishing at the bottom of the NFL rankings, and while injuries at the quarterback position can be pointed to, they are not the sole reason for poor performance.
The Jaguars’ Trevor Lawrence was put on injured reserve a couple of weeks ago but was already on pace for his worst season since his 2021 rookie campaign. Mac Jones has had some good moments since replacing Lawrence, including a Week 14 road win over the Tennessee Titans, but he also has thrown more interceptions (seven) than touchdowns (four).
The Raiders’ issues under center have been even more pronounced. Three different quarterbacks have started, with the collective combining for uninspiring numbers — 80.6 passer rating, 15 touchdowns and 15 interceptions. Aidan O’Connell is probably a better option than Desmond Ridder, but he sat out Monday night’s 15-9 loss to the Atlanta Falcons with a knee injury. Pass protection is a concern regardless of who is out there. Las Vegas has given up 47 sacks, the third-highest total in the league.
The Raiders defense has been a pleasant surprise, ranking ninth in the league against the pass and 12th in total yards allowed per game. The Jags catch a break in that pass rusher Maxx Crosby will miss the rest of the season because of an ankle injury. But can Jones and company take advantage? And Crosby’s absence doesn’t change the fact that Jacksonville is dead last in the league in total and passing defense.
Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Las Vegas Raiders odds
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(Photo of Mac Jones: Perry Knotts / Getty Images)