The New England Patriots are heading across the pond for a Week 7 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley Stadium in London. This highly anticipated NFL International Series game is set to kick off on Sunday, October 20th at 9:30 AM EDT.
New England Patriots players practicing at the Harrow School in London
Both teams are entering the game with a 1-5 record, hungry for a win to turn their seasons around. The Patriots are coming off a tough loss to the Houston Texans, while the Jaguars are reeling from a heavy defeat to the Chicago Bears in London last week.
This game marks the Patriots’ fifth appearance in the NFL International Series and their third time playing in London. The Patriots have a strong history in international games, boasting a 3-1 record in such matchups. Their previous two games at Wembley Stadium were dominant victories, showcasing their ability to perform on the international stage.
Key Matchups to Watch
The game features several intriguing matchups that could determine the outcome. Let’s delve into the key battles:
Patriots Passing Attack vs. Jaguars Secondary
Rookie quarterback Drake Maye provided a much-needed spark to the Patriots’ offense in his debut last week, throwing for three touchdowns against the Texans. He’ll be looking to build on that performance against a Jaguars secondary that has struggled mightily this season. Jacksonville currently ranks last in the league in passing yards allowed, giving Maye and his receivers a prime opportunity to exploit their vulnerabilities.
Patriots Run Defense vs. Jaguars Rushing Attack
The Jaguars possess a formidable rushing attack led by the dynamic duo of Tank Bigsby and Travis Etienne. However, Etienne’s status for the game is uncertain due to a hamstring injury. The Patriots’ run defense has been inconsistent this season, and they’ll need to step up their game to contain the Jaguars’ ground game.
Players to Watch
Drake Maye, Quarterback, New England Patriots
All eyes will be on Drake Maye as he makes his second career start. The rookie quarterback displayed poise and playmaking ability in his debut, and the Patriots will be hoping he can replicate that performance against the Jaguars.
Keion White, Defensive End, New England Patriots
Keion White has been a consistent presence in opposing backfields this season, recording at least one quarterback hit in each of the first six games. His ability to generate pressure on Trevor Lawrence will be crucial for the Patriots’ defense.
Trevor Lawrence, Quarterback, Jacksonville Jaguars
After a breakout season in 2022, Trevor Lawrence has endured a frustrating start to the 2024 season. He’ll be looking to get back on track against a Patriots secondary that is coming off a tough outing against the Texans.
What’s at Stake
With both teams desperate for a win, this game carries significant weight. A victory for the Patriots would not only get them back to .500 on the season but also provide a much-needed confidence boost. For the Jaguars, a win would be a chance to right the ship and salvage their season.
Conclusion
The Patriots’ trip to London promises to be an exciting matchup between two teams looking to turn their seasons around. With key matchups on both sides of the ball and plenty of young talent on display, this game is sure to be a captivating watch for NFL fans around the world.
