LONDON — The Jacksonville Jaguars found themselves grappling with various issues following a disappointing 35-16 defeat against the Chicago Bears at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, which dropped their record to 1-5 this season. Many players and coaches alike were left searching for solutions. Gabe Davis’ early dropped pass in the end zone set a concerning tone for the team, leading them to settle for only three points on their initial drive.
Quarterback Trevor Lawrence expressed his frustration, emphasizing that the team must develop a more resilient mindset. “You would love to score, but it’s a long game. I think as a team we can’t be so fragile,” he remarked.
The Jaguars’ defense struggled to contain Bears quarterback Caleb Williams and his talented group of receivers, particularly in the second quarter, and penalties further compounded their difficulties. Safety Andre Cisco conveyed to a local television station that he observed a noticeable lack of fight within the team.
Despite their struggles, Lawrence assured fans of the team’s commitment to head coach Doug Pederson, insisting that the respect and support for their leader remains intact. “Yeah, that’s our head coach, and we’re a team,” he stated. “This is tough. Losing is hard. It’s hard. So it has nothing to do with that relationship, how we feel about Coach. We’re a group. We’re staying together. We know brighter days are ahead. We just have to keep working.” He reiterated the need for the Jaguars to play more cohesively, indicating that they are not currently functioning as a unified team.
Team owner Shad Khan had previously shown his confidence in Pederson, and the coach reaffirmed his belief in that support in his postgame comments. “I do. I was just with him, and I do,” Pederson explained regarding his rapport with Khan.
After falling behind 14-3 to start the second half, Lawrence attempted to rally the Jaguars by connecting with Evan Engram for a promising 24-yard gain. However, after a fumble that was recovered by Chicago, the Bears quickly extended their lead to 21-3 with Keenan Allen’s touchdown reception.
Lawrence lamented the missed opportunities, noting that the team frequently failed to capitalize on key moments. “It felt like when we got some big plays, we would have some penalties or we would turn it over,” he assessed. He underscored the importance of seizing momentum during critical junctures in the game.
Although Lawrence managed to throw two touchdown passes to Davis in the second half, the Jaguars never genuinely posed a threat to reclaim control of the match. Engram, who returned to the field after a hamstring injury, led the Jaguars with an impressive 10 receptions for 102 yards.
When asked if the lack of focus was a concern, defensive end Josh Hines-Allen commented on the broader issues affecting the team. “I think there’s a lack in general, but focus can be one of those,” he said, adding that an increased sense of urgency and passion is crucial for improvement.
Notably, the Jaguars arrived in London later than usual compared to their counterparts, the Bears, who traveled earlier in the week. Jacksonville will remain in London as they prepare to face the New England Patriots next Sunday at Wembley Stadium.
Despite the pressing challenges, Lawrence remains optimistic, noting the long football season ahead. “We got 11 more games, so there’s definitely a way back,” he concluded. “We’ve got to — pumping us up isn’t going to do anything up here, so we have to take care of business on our end.” With a determination to improve, the Jaguars look to recalibrate before their next matchup.