2006 Jacksonville Jags Predictions

The Jacksonville Jaguars have been on the fast track to Super Bowl contention the past two years. After finishing 9-7 and just missing the playoffs in 2004, the Jags got over the first hurdle toward reaching their goal, finishing 12-4 in 2005 and securing a wild-card berth. Now, Jacksonville hopes it can leapfrog Indianapolis in the AFC South on its way to a Super Bowl appearance.

For the Jaguars to make that leap, they will have to become more explosive on offense. Unfortunately, they lost their top receiver, and their star quarterback and running back each have injury concerns. The loss of No. 1 receiver Jimmy Smith to retirement is going to put more pressure on a young receiving corps. QB Byron Leftwich missed the final five regular-season games last season, and injury-prone RB Fred Taylor is already complaining of a tender hamstring in training camp.

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Key Additions: DB Brian Williams, OT Mike Williams, LBs Nick Greisen and Clint Ingram (rookie), WRs Randy Hymes and Troy Edwards, TE Marcedes Lewis (rookie), RB Maurice Drew (rookie).

Key Subtractions: WR Jimmy Smith (retired), LB Jamie Winborn, OT Mike Pearson, DBs Deke Cooper and Kenny Wright.

Sportsbook Odds: The Jags still have to prove themselves to the bettors. Despite their recent success, many aren't sold that their upward trend will continue. WagerWeb.com has Jacksonville as +$330 to win the AFC South, +$1400 to win the AFC championship and +$2600 to win Super Bowl XLI.

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Player To Watch: The Jaguars need a healthy Taylor if they want to be serious contenders. When he's 100 percent, Taylor is one of the best backs in the NFL. He has had five seasons of more than 1,200 yards rushing and has a 4.6 career rushing average. However, Coach Jack Del Rio has indicated that backup RB Greg Jones is pushing Taylor for the starting job. "Greg continues to impress me. We know what he can do and what he's about."

Outlook: The running game will be a huge factor for Jacksonville, no matter which back gets the bulk of the carries. With unproven receivers Matt Jones, Chad Owens and Ernest Wilford as Leftwich's primary targets, teams will be stacking the line daring the Jags to beat them through the air. The Jaguars have a solid defense that will keep them in most games, but the shortcomings on offense will keep Jacksonville from a repeat playoff appearance.

By Mike Brody of WagerWeb