Jacksonville Jaguars Regain National Respect Against The Colts

Coach Jack Del Rio:

I am writing this article to offer my heart-felt apologies to you and your team. This past Thursday night in Jacksonville, on national television (well, sort of), you and your team showed the NFL that the Jaguars are on the right track and well worth fan admiration.

That's right—I apologize.

Early this year I wrote several articles where I blasted the Jacksonville Jaguars for their poor play and coaching. Yes, they are young and rebuilding, but I was like most other fans—in need of instant gratification.

Well, that gratification came Thursday night.

David Garrard played well, Maurice Jones-Drew ran with authority, and Mike Sims-Walker again proved he is growing into one of the best WRs in the NFL.

The defense, on the other hand, continued to struggle. Yes, I know they were going up against Peyton Manning and the gang, but there is still opportunity for great improvement on that side of the ball.

The biggest disappointment award definitely falls on Reggie Nelson. Twice he failed miserably. He looked like a pinball when attempting to tackle Dallas Clark, and after letting Reggie Wayne blow by him, he weakly attempted to knock the ball out of his hands before scoring a TD.

Now any player can have a bad game, but Nelson's play Thursday night was disgraceful.  If Coach Tucker and/or Coach Del Rio doesn't reevaluate Reggie Nelson's future after that game I would be shocked.

Unfortunately, I was not able to attend the game, but I was able to watch it in it's entirety. I hope what we saw was indicative of the future.

Overall, I give the Jaguars a B+ for their performance. Obviously I took into account they played an undefeated Peyton Manning led team, but there was still room for improvement. 

Will the Jaguars slip into the playoffs this year?  Who knows, but they are definitely moving in the right direction for next season.