JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The news of the Jacksonville Jaguars playing on “Monday Night Football” had a profound impact on Josh Allen. He recalls the moment he heard about it while working out in Arizona and how it made him scream with excitement. The primetime showcase holds significant value for the small-market franchise.
The Jaguars (8-3) will be returning to the coveted spot for the first time in twelve years when they host the struggling Cincinnati Bengals (5-6) to conclude the Week 13 schedule. This comes after the Jacksonville team’s 38-14 home loss to the then-San Diego Chargers on Dec. 5, 2011.
PHOTOS: Jaguars hope to shine against Bengals on ‘Monday Night Football’ after 12-year drought in TV spot
During the period of absence from “Monday Night Football”, the Jaguars have been overlooked, even after their AFC title game appearance in the 2017 season. However, their recent success, winning seven of their past eight games, has caught national attention. The team hopes to continue their winning streak against the Bengals, who are facing a three-game losing streak and will be without star quarterback Joe Burrow due to season-ending wrist surgery.
Jaguars coach Doug Pederson expressed his excitement and emphasized the importance of maintaining composure. “Monday night is a special night. You’re the only game on, everybody is watching you and you want to put your best foot forward,” said Pederson.
On the other hand, the Bengals have struggled on Monday nights with a 3-20 away game record, which is the worst in NFL history. Their upcoming game against the Jaguars presents an opportunity to avoid further setbacks in the competitive AFC playoff picture.
Bengals coach Zac Taylor remains optimistic, highlighting the wide-open playoff race and the need for the team to aim for their best performance.
In an interesting twist, Zac Taylor and his younger brother, Press Taylor, will be on opposite sidelines for the first time since the 2020 season. Press Taylor serves as Jacksonville’s offensive coordinator and play-caller.
As the Bengals cope with Burrow’s absence, offensive coordinator Brian Callahan acknowledged the challenge of adjusting to the situation, recognizing the difficulty Burrow may be facing in watching from the sidelines.
Cincinnati’s struggles in the run game have added pressure on the passing attack, with the team ranking last in the NFL in rushing, averaging 75.8 yards per game.
The Jaguars, dealing with their own set of challenges, will have their fifth starting offensive line combination of the season as they prepare to face the Bengals.
