Jacksonville Jaguars vs Houston Texans: Can Quarterback Trevor Lawrence Help Duval Bounce Back?

Trevor Lawrence Must Steady the Ship

Lawrence’s Week 2 performance against Cincinnati was the perfect microcosm of his career so far: flashes of talent combined with costly mistakes. While he did throw three touchdown passes, context matters — two of them were dump-offs to running backs, Tuten and Etienne, who did all the work after the catch. While those plays padded his stat line, they didn’t showcase the kind of precision or command Jacksonville needs from him.

On the flip side, his two interceptions — including another costly red-zone mistake — again raised questions about his decision-making in critical moments. Lawrence will also look to get on the same page with his top two targets, Brian Thomas Jr. and Travis Hunter. Many criticized Thomas for what initially appeared to be a lack of effort. However, it has now become clear that Lawrence was delivering what would have been “hospital” balls to him on many throws. Week 3 is about proving he can rise above inconsistency and finally deliver against a rival that has consistently had Jacksonville’s number. The Jaguars vs Texans is a critical game for Lawrence.

Stroud Searching for Answers in Year Two

While Lawrence faces pressure to meet expectations, Stroud is battling concerns of regression. After a standout rookie season, Stroud has looked unsettled through the first two weeks of 2025. His accuracy has dipped, his reads have slowed, and Houston’s offense has sputtered.

The Texans need Stroud to rediscover his poise. The Jacksonville Jaguars vs Houston Texans rivalry has been one that Stroud can lay his claim of dominance to. If he can avoid turnovers, hit rhythm throws, and take advantage of Jacksonville’s secondary, Houston’s season could turn around quickly.

Jags X-Factor: The Emergence of Bhayshul Tuten

One reason for optimism in Jacksonville is the rise of rookie running back Bhayshul Tuten. Though used sparingly in Week 2, Tuten made every touch count, piling up 74 yards from scrimmage on just 10 touches, including a receiving touchdown. His quickness and versatility gave the Jaguars’ offense a spark, hinting he may be more than just a change-of-pace option behind Travis Etienne.

If Jacksonville leans more on Tuten alongside Etienne, they can reduce pressure on Lawrence and open up play-action opportunities. A stronger running game could also wear down Houston’s defensive front and help tilt the matchup in Jacksonville’s favor.

Keys to Victory

For Jacksonville:

• Trevor Lawrence must limit turnovers.
• Establish the run with Etienne and Tuten.
• Use the home crowd to break Houston’s streak.

For Houston:

• Get Stroud comfortable with quick passes.
• Contain Jacksonville’s explosive playmakers.
• Force Lawrence into mistakes and keep pressure on him.

Prediction & Outlook

This game carries weight for both franchises. For Jacksonville, a win means snapping Houston’s stranglehold, getting back above .500, and quieting doubts about Lawrence. For Houston, victory would mean their first win of 2025 and renewed belief that Stroud remains the quarterback to build around.

The Jaguars appear to have slightly more momentum, especially with Tuten’s emergence, giving them a fresh weapon. If Lawrence protects the football and the defense rattles Stroud, Jacksonville should finally rewrite the narrative at home.

Still, history suggests Houston cannot be counted out. The Texans have thrived in Jacksonville, and until the Jaguars prove otherwise, the shadow of that dominance looms large.