Steelers vs. Jaguars: Q&A with Black and Teal site expert

The Steelers are set to take on the Jaguars in Week 11. Black and Teal site expert, Carlos Sanchez, answers questions ahead of the game.

The Steelers haven’t fared well against the Jacksonville Jaguars in years past. While Pittsburgh won their most recent battle in 2018, this is a matchup that has favored their opponent. In 2017, the Jaguars not only embarrassed Mike Tomlin’s team in a 30-9 pounding early in the season, but they also went on to knock the Steelers out of the playoffs.

This time around, it clearly seems like Pittsburgh should have the upper hand – at least on paper. I recently caught up with Black and Teal site expert, Carlos Sanchez, to discuss this Week 11 matchup between the team with the best record in the NFL and the team with the second-worst record in the league. Here were my questions for him:

Steelers vs. Jaguars Q&A

What has been the biggest reason for Jacksonville’s struggles this year?

Their biggest factor behind the Jaguar’s struggles in 2020 was their decision to part ways with contributors such as Calais Campbell and Yannick Ngakoue in the offseason and failing to fill their voids. Also, there doesn’t seem to be a plan in place, but there might be an explanation for that.

Since head coach Doug Marrone and general Manager David Caldwell may get the pink slip in the offseason, the organization might’ve opted to wait until the offseason to make any meaningful personnel chances.

What area have the Jaguars been the most successful in?

Even though Jacksonville’s offense ranks 26th in points scored, rookie James Robinson has run the ball very efficiently and is among the running backs in the league.

Their wide receiver corps is quite solid too. Although they don’t have an All-Pro on their roster, the unit is full of productive contributors such as Keelan Cole and DJ Chark.

Do the Jaguars have an answer to slow down the Steelers receivers? How will they attempt to cover Chase Claypool down the field?

Actually, rookie CJ Henderson recovered from a recent rough stretch and held his own in Week 11. The Florida standout allowed 43 yards on six targets and forced a fumble.

Sidney Jones is having a career revival in Jacksonville after flopping with the Philadelphia Eagles. Although he gave up a big play against the Packers, he had a key interception that helped the Jaguars get back in the game.

Henderson and Jones will be responsible for slowing down JuJu Smith-Schuster and Chase Claypool.

What is one player the Steelers should be worried about stopping this week?

The young Jaguars defensive tackle duo could make things difficult for the Steelers. DaVon Hamilton had a dominant performance in Week 7 and hasn’t stopped since then. If anything, he’s getting even better.

Doug Costin also showed flashes in recent weeks but missed the Jaguars Week 10 game with a concussion. He’s cleared to play on Sunday and should pick up where he left off against Pittsburgh.

What will Jacksonville have to do in order to give the Steelers a run for their money on Sunday?

If the Jaguars want to have a shot at pulling the upset, they will need to force a couple of turnovers, and rookie quarterback Jake Luton will have to have an efficient game. Both may be unlikely.

The Steelers are heavy favorites in this contest, but we nearly saw the Jaguars upset the Green Bay Packers on the road last week. Let’s hope Pittsburgh can take care of business against a team that has haunted them in the past.