Colts vs. Jaguars Pick ATS – Injuries a Key Factor?

Where: EverBank Stadium (Jacksonville, FL)

When: Sunday, October 6th at 1:00 PM EST

Watch: CBS

Betting Odds

Spread: Jacksonville Jaguars -3.0

Over/Under: 46.0

Game Preview: AFC South Rivalry in Focus

An AFC South divisional game between the Indianapolis Colts and Jacksonville Jaguars is set to be a crucial matchup for both teams. On Sunday, the Colts travel to Jacksonville to face a Jaguars team that remains winless in the 2024 season. The Jaguars are the only team without a victory this year, and this game carries significant weight for them as they look to avoid becoming the league’s laughingstock once again. The Colts, on the other hand, have a chance to secure a vital road win while battling injuries that have plagued their roster. Who holds the upper hand? Let’s break down the key matchups and areas of improvement for both teams.

Indianapolis Colts: Injuries Mount as They Seek Victory

The Colts enter Week 5 with a 2-2 record, currently sitting in second place in a competitive AFC South. With the Texans leading the division, Indianapolis is just one game back and looking to stay in contention. However, they face internal challenges as injuries have mounted. Quarterback Anthony Richardson is questionable after suffering a hip injury in Week 4, and his status remains uncertain. If Richardson is sidelined, the Colts may turn to veteran Joe Flacco, who could bring stability to the passing game despite the team’s struggles through the air, ranking 21st in the league with 194.5 yards per game.

Adding to their woes, star running back Jonathan Taylor may also miss the game, leaving the Colts to rely on backup Trey Sermon, who has had limited touches this season. Wide receiver Michael Pittman, along with Josh Downs and Alec Pierce, have provided flashes of playmaking ability, but overall inconsistency has hampered the offense. Defensively, the Colts rank last in total yards allowed per game, and their run defense is especially porous. A matchup against the struggling Jaguars might be what the Colts need to bounce back.

Jacksonville Jaguars: Searching for Their First Win

The Jaguars return home after consecutive road losses to the Bills and Texans. Despite some improvement against Houston, Jacksonville has struggled to find success on both sides of the ball. Franchise quarterback Trevor Lawrence has been inconsistent, completing nearly as many incompletions as passes, although he has limited turnovers. Lawrence has developed chemistry with rookie wide receiver Brian Thomas, who leads the team in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns.

In the running game, Jacksonville has relied on a 1-2 punch of Travis Etienne and Tank Bigsby, who have helped the Jaguars average over 125 rushing yards per game. However, their offensive struggles are evident as they have found it difficult to score touchdowns. Defensively, the Jaguars’ pass defense has been their Achilles’ heel, allowing 272.8 passing yards per game and an average of 27.3 points per game. Despite their solid run defense, Jacksonville must tighten their pass coverage to avoid another loss.

Prediction: Can the Jaguars Finally Secure a Win?

My Pick: Jacksonville Jaguars -3.0 (-110)

Based on the injury disparity between the two teams, the Jaguars have a prime opportunity to pick up their first win of the season. The Colts, fielding several backups at key positions, will have their hands full, especially with the game taking place in Jacksonville. I expect the Jaguars to capitalize on this chance and secure a much-needed victory. Playing at home provides them with an added edge, and I predict they will cover the spread this Sunday.