Scout's Take: NFL Media and Jaguars Media Analyst Bucky Brooks Examines Jaguars-Texans, Week 10

Nov 12, 2025 at 12:22 PM

Bucky Brooks

Jaguars Analyst

JACKSONVILLE – In a weekly feature for the 2025 season, NFL Media and Jaguars Media Analyst Bucky Brooks breaks down the Jaguars' performance in a 36-29 Week 10 loss to the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium in Houston, Tex.

BIG IMPRESSION

The Jaguars blew a 19-point lead to a divisional rival playing with a backup quarterback, with the team's lack of competitive stamina and championship pedigree showing up in the fourth quarter. With the game seemingly in hand with less than a minute remaining in the third quarter, the Jaguars did not make the critical plays to win. From failing to get key stops on third downs, to multiple offensive three-and-outs, to the costly penalties on both sides of the ball, the Jaguars melted down when it mattered most at the end of the game. Although there are plenty of excuses and explanations for the team's fourth-quarter failure, the league's top teams and playoff contenders close out games with superior effort and execution when the game is on the line.

KEYS TO VICTORY

The Jaguars' fourth-quarter stumbles led to their fourth loss of the season. The defense could not muster a consistent pass rush or stay connected in coverage to get off the field on third downs. The lack of execution on critical downs, combined with a few untimely penalties, led to a series of extended drives that exposed a tired defense at the end. While the offense could have saved the defense by effectively executing a "turtle" offense (slow down, clock-eating approach) to reduce the number of possessions in the quarter, the defense must be able to preserve a 19-point lead with 16 minutes remaining in the game. Whether maintaining their aggressiveness or dialing it back and featuring more soft zones, the defense cannot let a backup quarterback execute three lengthy scoring drives in the final quarter to steal a game that was seemingly in the bag.

TREVOR'S TIME

Despite posting a decent stat line (completed 13 of 23 passes for 158 yards with a score and an interception), Lawrence would likely earn a C-plus in the classroom for his performance. The fifth-year pro made a few jaw-dropping throws that showcased his outstanding arm talent, but the repeated misfires on deep shots and intermediate routes are unacceptable for a franchise quarterback expected to elevate the play of the offense. Additionally, Lawrence could not make the critical pass on a pair of third downs in the fourth quarter that would have enabled the Jaguars to close out the game. While the offensive line's struggles in pass protection certainly impacted his performance, the Jaguars needed Lawrence to transform into a superhero to walk out of Houston with a win.

UNSUNG HERO

Wide receiver Parker Washington continues to step up when the Jaguars need a big play. The third-year pro scored a pair of touchdowns on a ballerina-like catch and a spectacular punt return that showcased his explosive talents in the open field. Additionally, Washington tallied 33 receiving yards on three catches as a valued utility man in the passing game. Considering the Jaguars are desperately looking for playmaking from an underachieving wide receiver corps, Washington's contributions as a "two-phase" player continue to carry a team that is struggling to score points.

OFFENSIVELY SPEAKING

The Jaguars' offense continued to sputter against one of the best defenses in the NFL. The offensive line's struggles have prevented the team from establishing a running game or sufficiently protecting Lawrence on pass plays. The constant chaos at the line of scrimmage severely limited Head Coach Liam Coen's call sheet, leading to fewer explosive plays and extended drives. With left tackle Walker Little struggling on the edges and injuries forcing right tackle Anton Harrison and right guard Patrick Mekari to the sidelines, the offensive line lacked the manpower and execution to help the offense produce against a top-ranked defense.

DEFENSIVELY SPEAKING

The defense's late-game struggles continued against a lackluster offense with backup quarterback Davis Mills at the helm. Despite facing a Texans offense that injuries on the frontline have ravaged, the Jaguars could not muster a consistent pass rush or stop the run when it mattered most. While the unit was able to get more bodies around the quarterback on blitzes, the Jaguars' coverage routinely fell apart whenever defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile dialed up the pressures. With a call sheet that produced few answers in the fourth quarter, the Jaguars' defensive architect must go back to the drawing board to craft a plan that increases the quarterback pressure while minimizing the risky coverage in the back end.