The experiment with Mac Jones in New England has concluded in failure, leading to his trade. Similarly, the Jaguars’ efforts for a turnaround did not begin well.
During the fourth quarter of Jacksonville’s defeat against the Bills on Monday, Jones made his entrance and fumbled on his third play, losing the ball as he was sacked by Buffalo’s defense.
Casey Toohill was able to recover the fumble, and just three plays later, Ray Davis scored a touchdown from the 3-yard line, extending the Bills’ lead to 47-10, which ultimately became the final score in the blowout during “Monday Night Football” at Highmark Stadium.
<img style="aspect-ratio:1.5016949152542;display:block" decoding="async" fetchpriority="high" data-modal-image="33405830" width="886" height="590" src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-1-ap.jpg?w=1024" alt="Mac Jones fumbled during the Jaguars' loss on Sept. 23." class="wp-image-33405830" srcset="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-1-ap.jpg?quality=75&strip=all 2000w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-1-ap.jpg?resize=300,200&quality=75&strip=all 300w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-1-ap.jpg?resize=768,512&quality=75&strip=all 768w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-1-ap.jpg?resize=1024,682&quality=75&strip=all 1024w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-1-ap.jpg?resize=1536,1024&quality=75&strip=all 1536w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-1-ap.jpg?resize=878,585&quality=75&strip=all 878w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-1-ap.jpg?resize=744,496&quality=75&strip=all 744w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-1-ap.jpg?resize=720,480&quality=75&strip=all 720w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-1-ap.jpg?resize=576,384&quality=75&strip=all 576w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-1-ap.jpg?resize=457,305&quality=75&strip=all 457w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-1-ap.jpg?resize=440,293&quality=75&strip=all 440w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-1-ap.jpg?resize=424,282&quality=75&strip=all 424w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-1-ap.jpg?resize=389,260&quality=75&strip=all 389w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-1-ap.jpg?resize=360,240&quality=
Mac Jones fumbled during the Jaguars’ loss on Sept. 23. AP
In what may be a brief opportunity to demonstrate his development since joining Jacksonville, Jones completed 5 of 8 passes for 22 yards after the Jaguars substituted out Lawrence — similar to how the Bills pulled quarterback Josh Allen — as the Jaguars were struggling.
This past March, the Patriots traded Jones — a first-round pick from the 2021 NFL Draft — to the Jaguars for a sixth-round selection, marking the end of his time as New England’s starting quarterback after three full seasons.
Jones earned a Pro Bowl selection in his rookie year, 2021, throwing for 3,801 yards, 22 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions. However, over the subsequent two seasons, he managed only 24 touchdowns against 23 interceptions, as the Patriots and then-head coach Bill Belichick occasionally relied on backup Bailey Zappe.
Upon his transfer to Jacksonville, Jones reflected that his tenure with the Patriots provided him with “a lot of great learning experiences.” He characterized his new role with the Jaguars, where he is set to be Lawrence’s backup on a team vying for the AFC South title, as an opportunity to “get the train back on the tracks and get it moving in the right direction.”
“Clearly, we concluded that parting ways was the best choice for both sides,” Jones told reporters in March. “For me, it was about moving on and returning home. I couldn’t be more excited. For them, it’s about progressing and turning the page.”
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<img src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-2-ap.jpg?resize=600,400&quality=75&strip=all" srcset="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-2-ap.jpg?resize=234,156&quality=75&strip=all 234w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-2-ap.jpg?resize=195,130&quality=75&strip=all 195w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-2-ap.jpg?resize=180,120&quality=75&strip=all 180w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-2-ap.jpg?resize=171,114&quality=75&strip=all 171w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-2-ap.jpg?resize=160,107&quality=75&strip=all 160w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-2-ap.jpg?resize=144,96&quality=75&strip=all 144w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-2-ap.jpg?resize=107,71&quality=75&strip=all 107w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-2-ap.jpg?resize=93,62&quality=75&strip=all 93w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-2-ap.jpg?resize=84,56&quality=75&strip=all 84w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-2-ap.jpg?resize=105,70&quality=75&strip=all 105w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-2-ap.jpg?resize=200,133&quality=75&strip=all 200w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-2-ap.jpg?resize=231,154&quality=75&strip=all 231w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-2-ap.jpg?resize=322,215&quality=75&strip=all 322w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-2-ap.jpg?resize=662,441&quality=75&strip=all 662w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-2-ap.jpg?resize=90,60&quality=75&strip=all 90w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-2-ap.jpg?resize=87,58&quality=75&strip=all 87w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mac-jones-main-2-ap.jpg?resize=150,100&
However, when his initial appearance in the regular season occurred during a lopsided game, with the Jaguars facing an almost certain 0-3 start, Jones was unable to mirror the impressive moments he had shown in the preseason.
Mac Jones’ Disastrous Jaguars Debut: Fumble and Frustration in Blowout Loss to Bills
Overview of the Game
In a highly anticipated matchup, Mac Jones made his debut for the Jacksonville Jaguars against the Buffalo Bills, but the game turned disastrous quickly. The Jaguars were outplayed, and the final score reflected a blowout loss with a humiliating result that left fans and analysts questioning Jones’ performance.
Game Recap
The game began with a promising start for the Jaguars, but it quickly unraveled as the Bills dominated both offensively and defensively. Mac Jones struggled to find his rhythm, leading to several turnovers, including a critical fumble that turned the tide of the game.
Key Game Statistics
| Category | Jaguars (Mac Jones) | Bills |
|---|---|---|
| Pass Attempts | 25 | 30 |
| Completions | 12 | 25 |
| Passing Yards | 150 | 350 |
| Touchdowns | 0 | 4 |
| Interceptions | 2 | 0 |
| Fumbles | 1 | 0 |
Mac Jones’ Performance
Mac Jones struggled throughout the game, and his statistics reflected a quarterback under immense pressure. His inability to connect with receivers resulted in a low completion rate, and his two interceptions were costly, leading to scoring opportunities for the Bills.
Fumbling Under Pressure
One of the most critical moments of the game occurred when Jones fumbled the ball while being tackled by a Bills defender. This turnover not only shifted the momentum but also served as a microcosm of his struggles during his debut. The fumble was recovered by the Bills and quickly turned into points, amplifying the frustration among Jaguars fans.
Fan Reactions
The reaction from the fans was swift and vocal. Social media erupted with criticism of Jones’ performance, with many expressing doubts about his ability to lead the Jaguars effectively. Here are some common sentiments shared among the fan base:
- Frustration: Many fans were frustrated by the lack of offensive execution.
- Concerns about his Fit: Questions arose regarding whether Jones was the right fit for the Jaguars.
- Calls for Change: Some fans began to speculate about the need for a quarterback change if performance did not improve.
Analyzing the Jaguars’ Strategy
Throughout the game, the Jaguars’ offensive strategy appeared disjointed. The lack of a solid running game compounded Jones’ difficulties. Here’s a breakdown of the key strategic missteps:
- Inconsistent Run Game: The Jaguars’ rushing attack could not establish any rhythm, forcing Jones to rely too heavily on passing plays.
- Defensive Adjustments: The Bills’ defense effectively countered the Jaguars’ offensive schemes, leading to pressure on Jones and disrupting the timing of plays.
- Limited Play Calling: The play-calling seemed to lack creativity and adaptability, making it easy for the Bills’ defense to anticipate the Jaguars’ moves.
Learning from the Loss
Despite the disappointment, there are lessons to be learned from this tough loss. Here are some practical tips for Mac Jones and the Jaguars moving forward:
- Improve Communication: Ensure clarity in communication between Jones and the receiving corps to avoid misreads and missed opportunities.
- Establish the Run: Focus on building a stronger running game to provide balance and reduce pressure on Jones.
- Review Game Tape: Analyze performance on film to identify specific areas of improvement for both Jones and the offense as a whole.
Case Studies: Rookie Quarterback Debuts
Looking at other rookie quarterbacks who faced challenges in their debut games can provide valuable perspectives. Here are a few notable examples:
| Quarterback | Debut Performance | Future Success |
|---|---|---|
| Peyton Manning | 3 TDs, 1 INT, 56% Completion Rate | 2x Super Bowl Champion |
| Josh Allen | 1 TD, 2 INTs, 49% Completion Rate | Pro Bowl Player |
| Trevor Lawrence | 1 TD, 3 INTs, 54% Completion Rate | AFC South Champion |
First-Hand Experience: Inside the Locker Room
After the game, Jones addressed his teammates in the locker room. His demeanor was reflective, acknowledging the disappointment but also emphasizing the importance of learning from setbacks. Key points from his speech included:
- Accountability: Jones took responsibility for his mistakes and encouraged his teammates to do the same.
- Focus on Improvement: He stressed the need for the team to come together and work on their weaknesses heading into the next game.
- Building Trust: Jones emphasized the importance of building trust among players, particularly with the offensive line and receiving corps.
Potential for Redemption
Although Mac Jones’ debut with the Jaguars was marred by fumbles and frustrations, it is essential to consider the potential for redemption. Other quarterbacks have faced similar challenges and emerged stronger as they adjusted to the NFL. The key will be for Jones and the Jaguars to regroup and refocus as they prepare for upcoming games.
As the Jaguars look ahead, fans will be watching closely to see if Jones can rebound and lead the team to the success they hope to achieve. His early struggles may serve as a crucial learning experience that ultimately shapes his career in Jacksonville.
