NFL London Game Preview: New England Patriots vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
As the 2024 NFL season unfolds, the spotlight turns to Wembley Stadium in London, where the New England Patriots (1-5) are set to clash with the Jacksonville Jaguars (1-5) in the final London Game of the year. Both teams are struggling, each mired in a five-game losing streak, making this matchup critical for both franchises as they seek to turn their seasons around.
Recent Performance
The Patriots are coming off a disappointing loss to the Houston Texans, where they were outclassed 41-21. This defeat marked their fifth consecutive loss, raising questions about the team’s direction and performance under head coach Bill Belichick. The Patriots have struggled against the spread as well, holding a record of 1-4-1 this season.
On the other hand, the Jaguars faced a tough challenge last week in London, falling to the Chicago Bears 35-16. Despite their struggles, Jacksonville has shown flashes of potential, particularly in their offensive capabilities. However, they too have not fared well against the spread, with a 2-4 record.
Game Details
Kickoff for this intriguing matchup is set for 9:30 a.m. ET, and the Jaguars enter the game as 6.5-point favorites according to the latest odds from SportsLine Consensus. The over/under for total points scored is set at 42, reflecting the uncertainty surrounding both teams’ offensive consistency.
Key Players to Watch
Jacksonville Jaguars:
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Trevor Lawrence: The Jaguars’ quarterback has been a bright spot in an otherwise challenging season. Over the last two games, Lawrence has demonstrated his dual-threat capabilities, ranking 12th in the league with 1,334 passing yards and tied for 12th with 12 touchdown passes. Last week, he completed 23 of 35 passes for 234 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing his ability to lead the offense effectively.
- Brian Thomas Jr.: This explosive receiver has emerged as a key target for Lawrence. Currently ninth in the NFL in receiving yards with 424, Thomas Jr. has the speed to stretch the field and create big plays. His ability to gain significant yardage after the catch makes him a player to watch in this matchup.
New England Patriots:
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Drake Maye: The rookie quarterback has been thrust into the starting role and has shown promise despite some growing pains. In his last outing, Maye completed 20 of 33 passes for 243 yards and three touchdowns, while also leading the team in rushing with 38 yards. His ability to extend plays with his legs adds a dynamic element to the Patriots’ offense.
- DeMario Douglas: As Maye’s favorite target, Douglas has been a reliable option in the passing game. Leading the team with 24 receptions and 245 receiving yards, he has developed a strong rapport with the rookie quarterback. In his last game, Douglas recorded a career-high 92 receiving yards and a touchdown, highlighting his potential to make significant contributions.
Betting Insights
The betting landscape for this matchup reveals some interesting trends. The Jaguars have struggled as favorites this season, going 0-3 against the spread. Meanwhile, the Patriots have not fared well since Belichick’s departure, with a record of 6-15-2 against the spread, ranking them among the worst in the league during that span.
The SportsLine Projection Model, which has a proven track record of success, is leaning towards the Under on the total points, projecting a combined score of 41 points. Additionally, the model indicates that one side of the spread holds significant value, making it essential for bettors to consider these insights before placing their wagers.
Streaming Options
For fans eager to catch the action, the game will be available for streaming on platforms like FuboTV, which offers a free trial for new users. This accessibility allows fans to engage with the game, regardless of their location.
As the Patriots and Jaguars prepare to face off in this pivotal London Game, both teams will be looking to break their losing streaks and regain some momentum in the 2024 NFL season. With key players stepping up and the stakes high, this matchup promises to deliver excitement and intrigue for fans and bettors alike.