JACKSONVILLE – Jim Nantz made this clear Thursday:
He likes what he sees in Jaguars quarterback Blake Bortles, and he is surprised more people don't see the same thing.
"I think it's going to be a big year for Blake Bortles," Nantz told Jaguars Drive Time Thursday.
Nantz and the rest of CBS' No. 1 NFL broadcast team that features analysts Tony Romo and sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson will work the Jaguars' game against the Kansas City Chiefs Sunday at 1 p.m., and the team also is expected to work the Jaguars' road game against the Dallas Cowboys the following Sunday.
The team worked the Jaguars' victory over the Buffalo Bills in the AFC Wild Card Game last January, as well as the AFC Championship Game loss at New England and the Jaguars' regular-season victory over the Patriots in Week 2 of this season.
"I think there has been so much buildup of negative momentum [regarding Bortles] by people who cover the league and look at the league closely," Nantz said. "I feel sorry for him. He doesn't want anybody's pity, but this guy is resilient as can be. He has become a very good quarterback. I'm waiting for that to gain some steam.
"What he did last year in the playoffs did not get enough acclaim."
Bortles' last season did not throw an interception or lose a fumble in three playoff games. The Jaguars went 2-1 in the postseason with victories over the Bills AFC Wild Card Playoff and the Pittsburgh Steelers in the AFC Divisional Playoff.
Nantz called Bortles' 377-yard, four-touchdown performance in a 31-20 victory over New England in Week 2 "his greatest moment."
"Blake's throwing motion has improved," Nantz said. "His leadership is unquestioned. His results are proving that. I for one am tired of people picking on Blake Bortles. I'm sick of it. It's over the top. It's piling on and I don't think it's accurate. He's different player now."
To see Nantz's complete appearance on Jaguars Drive Time Thursday, click here.
