Jacksonville’s late-season surge makes them a live bet for the AFC South and a fantasy-friendly team. Punters might favor the Jaguars moneyline and target Travis Etienne Jr. props (rush yards/TDs) in Week 15 against the Jets, given New York’s run-defense struggles and Etienne’s recent production.
Jaguars Take Control of AFC South in Coen’s First Year
Jacksonville has emerged as one of the most consequential teams of the 2025 NFL season. In Liam Coen’s debut as head coach, the Jaguars control their own destiny in the AFC South and remain in play for as high as the No. 2 seed in the conference. Their Week 5 Monday Night Football upset of the Kansas City Chiefs is already shaping up as a potential turning point that could carry wider postseason ramifications.
Offense Slow to Start, Now Heating Up
The offense began the year below expectations despite a roster that features Trevor Lawrence and several key skill players. That early inconsistency has given way to a stronger stretch run: Lawrence has climbed into top-tier fantasy quarterback production over the recent weeks, and multiple pass-catchers have recorded meaningful upticks in production. Rookie additions and schematic tweaks under Coen have begun to show dividends as the regular season winds down.
Travis Etienne Jr. — Fantasy Playoff Asset
Travis Etienne Jr. has been the most reliable offensive weapon through the Jaguars’ ups and downs. He’s outperforming his average draft position and slots among the league’s better full-PPR running backs over recent weeks. Since the team’s Week 9 bye, Etienne has averaged well into double-digit fantasy points per game, topping 15 points in the vast majority of outings. His workload and explosive-play ability make him a clear must-start for fantasy managers entering the playoffs.
Matchup Advantage vs. Jets
The Jaguars draw a favorable first-round fantasy playoff matchup against the New York Jets. The Jets have allowed numerous rushing touchdowns and rank among the worst teams in limiting opposing running backs this season, making Etienne a high-upside play. That vulnerability also opens the door for Jacksonville to lean on its ground game and short-area passing to control tempo.
Key Role Players: Brian Thomas Jr. and the Receiving Corps
Wide receivers have had streaky moments, but contributors like Brian Thomas Jr. have flashed the ceiling needed in late-season matchups. With the offense clicking more consistently, multiple Jaguars pass-catchers are in line for fantasy-relevant snaps and target volume, especially in games where the team looks to protect leads and manage the clock.
Betting Angles and Market Implications
From a wagering perspective, Jacksonville’s recent form supports the case for backing the moneyline in divisional matchups and laying modest juice on total rushing yards or Etienne TD props. Prop bettors should also consider Trevor Lawrence’s rushing and passing-yardage lines in favorable matchups. Additionally, the Week 5 win over Kansas City adds another storyline bettors may factor into futures markets if the Chiefs’ playoff outlook remains murky.
How to Approach Lines
Look for value on player props tied to volume — Etienne’s touches and red-zone opportunities are the most stable indicators. If sportsbooks underprice the Jaguars after a string of strong performances, small-teaser or parlay pieces involving Jacksonville’s spread or Etienne props can be sensible plays rather than large single-game wagers.
Bottom Line
The Jaguars have shifted from underperforming to must-watch status as the season closes. For fantasy managers, Travis Etienne Jr. is a clear start in the opening round. For bettors, Jacksonville’s momentum and a favorable matchup slate make them an appealing target in both game and player prop markets.
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The Jacksonville Jaguars' offense is catching fire just in time for the fantasy football playoffs.
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