JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Winning ugly is still winning, especially on the road in the NFL. Last year, Jacksonville lost a tough game against the Bengals, and Liam Coen wasn’t ready to let history repeat itself. This go around, the Jaguars’ defense held strong when it mattered most.
Anthony Campanile’s defensive identity becomes more and more clear by the day. Its mission: stop the run and force takeaways.
Against the Bengals, they did just that, allowing just 23 yards on 15 carries atop two interceptions. One of those interceptions came inside the red zone, yet again. The Jaguars ability to lock in on key downs and in key situations continues to win them games.
The Jaguars now are second in the NFL, allowing 74.3 rushing yards per game. They still have yet to allow a 75+ yard rusher since 2024. An average of only 3.3 yards per carry isn’t too bad either.
Campanile’s squad has now forced 39 takeaways since the start of 2025, most in the NFL (tied with Chicago Bears). Sunday’s two interceptions of Burrow marked the 13th time the Jaguars have forced multiple takeaways with Campanile as defensive coordinator. It’s simply in their DNA.
The Jaguars’ unicorn, Travis Hunter, was sensational in the win, playing all 76 defensive snaps.
He forced two PBUs and had an interception nullified due to a roughing the passer call. In total, he was targeted seven times, allowing four receptions for 26 yards. It was maybe the best defensive game of his NFL career.
On the offensive side of things, Brenton Strange had a career-high 95 yards on seven receptions, including three balls for 52 yards on third down. He had been quiet through the first three weeks, but showed out in Cincy.
The AFC South is now taking shape as the Jaguars move to 3-1, Colts to 2-2, while the Texans and Titans lag behind at 0-4. Next week, Jacksonville takes flight to England for the next two weeks before a Week 7 bye week. A banged up Eagles’ team and the spiraling Texans await.
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