Jacksonville Jaguars (0-1 SU, 0-1 ATS) vs. Washington Redskins (0-1 SU, 0-1 ATS)
NFL Week 2
Date and Time: September 14th @ 1:00 PM E
Where: FedEx Field
TV: DirectTV
by Jeff Hochman, Pro Handicapper, JHSportsline.com
Point Spread: Jax +6.5/Wash -6.5
Over/Under Total: 43
The Washing Redskins will look to bounce back in their home opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars. This is a big game for these two squads as one team will reach .500, while the loser will drop to 0-2. We all know the history of 0-2 teams going on to make the playoffs. It’s not good to say the least. The Jaguars jumped out to a 17-0 lead as 10-point road dogs and had all survivor pool players on edge. The Eagles scored 34 unanswered points to not only get the victory, but also the point spread cover. Amazing. The Jaguars were outstatted by 114 yards. The Redskins lost 17-6 to the Texans as 3-point road dogs. They actually outgained the Texans by 56 yards, but were victimized by two costly turnovers.
There is no doubt about it. The Redskins are struggling as they have been outscored 272-137 in their past nine games dating back to last season. Washington will be pumped up for sure, playing its first home game for their new coach. They must not look ahead as they have the Eagles, Giants, and defending Super Bowl champions on deck. Many players will look and see that the Jaguars are 3-7 SU in their past 10 games. However, they have covered six of the ten. The Redskins are playing better than its record would indicate. They are 6-4 ITS (in the stats) in their last 10 games. The Jaguars are much more physical this season. You can see it clearly on tape. The Redskins have trouble with these type of teams in the past. The Redskins must match the physicality the Jags will bring on both sides of the ball. The Eagles were surprised by it. But they are coached extremely well and made the necessary adjustments after the first quarter.
Robert Griffin III threw for 267 yards while completing 78.4% of his passes. It was the second highest single-game completion percentage in his career. Two turnovers and 70 yards in penalties did not help. The Redskins will look to slice up a Jaguars’ secondary that allowed Nick Foles to pass for 322 yards and two touchdowns. The Jaguars are going to test the Redskins rush defense. Toby Gerhart (18 carries, 42 yards) should have a good day on the ground. The Redskins allowed 115 rushing yards in last week’s loss. Playing three straight road games (preseason included) might have caught up with Washington.
The odds-makers have set the perfect line and are anticipating heavy action on the Redskins. The betting public is continuing to favor the home team. The Redskins have been a very poor play as home favorites. The Jaguars are now well-coached and should be very comfortable in Bradley’s second season. I don’t see this team giving up even if they are down by big numbers. Washington is just 12-25 ATS as home chalk of 3.5 to 7 points since 1993. Until the Redskins can prove it to me, I won’t back them. I like the Redskins to win but the Jaguars should grab the cash. I can see a possible late touchdown by the Jags for the backdoor cover.
Jeff’s Pick to Cover the Point Spread: Jacksonville Jaguars +6.5
Second consecutive road game is a little concerning, but I saw enough from Jacksonville last week to know they are much improved. Chad Henne is solid and will be able to keep this one close with his veteran presence. The Jaguars are well-coached and their talent level is on the rise. Gus Bradley is building something special in his second season. The team loves playing for him. Take the road dog.
