The Buffalo Bills are set to face the Jacksonville Jaguars in Jacksonville, Florida, on January 11, 2024. The game will kick off at 1:00 p.m. ET and will be broadcast live on CBS. This matchup promises to be crucial for both teams as they strive to enhance their playoff standings.
Analysts are closely examining various metrics to predict the outcome of this game. The Bills currently hold a power ranking of 3rd overall, while the Jaguars are ranked 8th. The contrast between their offensive and defensive capabilities could play a significant role. The Bills rank 3rd in offense, while the Jaguars have a stronger defense, coming in at 4th.
Quarterback Showdown
The performance of quarterbacks will be pivotal in this matchup. Josh Allen of the Bills boasts a PFF grade of 87.4 and a passer rating of 114.3 when kept clean. In contrast, Trevor Lawrence of the Jaguars has a PFF grade of 84.7 and a passer rating of 101.9. Both quarterbacks face pressure challenges, with Allen recording a passer rating of 71.0 under pressure, while Lawrence’s rating stands at 66.4.
In addition to quarterback statistics, team-level advantages are evident. The Bills have averaged 67.1 offensive snaps per game, compared to the Jaguars’ 69.2. The Bills execute 44.6% of their plays as runs, while the Jaguars opt for a higher pass play percentage at 60.4%.
Injury Impacts and Betting Insights
Injuries could significantly affect both teams. The Bills are dealing with several key injuries, including defensive tackle E. Oliver, who is on injured reserve, and safety J. Poyer, who is questionable. The Jaguars have their own injury concerns, particularly with tackle C. Van Lanen and cornerback J. Lewis, both of whom are listed as questionable or on injured reserve.
Betting insights indicate a tight contest, with the spread set at -1.5 for the Bills and +1.5 for the Jaguars. The PFF projection suggests a spread of -1.2 in favor of the Bills, indicating a near 50% implied cover probability for both teams.
The moneyline reflects similar competitiveness, with the Bills at -120 and the Jaguars at +100. PFF’s projections show a win probability of 50.6% for the Bills and 49.3% for the Jaguars, further emphasizing the anticipated closely contested nature of the game.
As fans gear up for the matchup, the anticipation builds. This game is critical for both teams as they navigate the latter part of the season, and the performance of key players will likely dictate the outcome. Whether the Bills can leverage their offensive strength or the Jaguars can capitalize on their defensive prowess remains to be seen.
