Jacksonville Jaguars: Halftime Observations for Jaguars vs. Chargers

On the grand stage that is Monday Night Football, the Jaguars get to prove their mettle despite having no chance of making the playoffs this year. This is the first game of the Mel Tucker era, after the firing of Jack Del Rio. They face a battle-tested Chargers team that is going through a very long dry spell, and is still holding out hope for a playoff berth of their own. Jacksonville gets to play spoiler tonight. Here are some halftime observations from this showdown in Jacksonville:

1. Stopping the Run

Jacksonville's front four and secondary are having a difficult time stopping the the Chargers' ground crew, specifically Ryan Mathews and Mike Tolbert. With Philip Rivers' shakiness at the QB position this season, Jacksonville has to capitalize by stopping the run and having Rivers throw the Chargers out of the game.

2. MJD Is a Little Off

Jones-Drew is recording a lot of carries, but early on was not averaging a high yards-per-carry average. The offensive line has to do a better job of opening up holes so MJD can use his blinding speed and acceleration to get some first downs and more. The Jags also had more luck when he was being used as a receiver, recording a 48-yard reception late in the half to give his team a 1st-and-goal.

3. Blaine Gabbert is On

Gabbert has thrown completion after completion, and no interceptions. He's looking really confident out there with the Jags' new coach, and has well over 100 yards passing in the half in addition to his two touchdowns. If he can keep his wits about him as the game gets serious, the Jags will have a good chance to get Mel Tucker his first win.

4. No Sacks

Philip Rivers should be being attacked on every down. He has been the most inconsistent starting QB in the league this year, and the Jaguars' secondary has not done a good enough job of forcing him out of his comfort zone. He's a sack or a pick away from sealing a Jags' victory.