The whole punter thing. It's weird, I know. But if you watch Anger's highlights on YouTube, you'll see his work is quite impressive - even if his is the dorkiest position in football. So, click the link below and take a look. It won't completely heal the wound, but it should relieve the pain a bit.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FGtndm0ZW78

Since that won't get you back to full health. Take a second and remember the Jags also got Justin Blackmon. I know his measurements aren't those of a prototypical bad ass, but click the link below and see how Blackmon makes up for the math with pure ability. It's his stint on SportsScience, and if you haven't seen it yet, you should.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_97kBZqj270&feature=related

Feel at least a little better now?

Not to stir the quarterback pot too much. But, is there a chance that the offensive boost the Jaguars need could already be on their roster? Chad Henne is no doubt a thrower of the football. He was stuck down in Miami during some miserable years. Yet he managed to hurl the second most 300+ yard passing games in Dolphins franchise history behind Dan Marino, in only four years.

Given the Jags' strong defense, MJD and a new coaching staff that actually knows a thing or two about offense, could Henne be the one to blossom? Perhaps Gabbert may find that much needed bench time and the solution to winning is simply hidden in plain sight. We shall see. But would anyone be surprised if he's the opening day starter?

Oh blah blah blah. Here comes another national football talk show. Great. Let's hear it boys. Tell us about Mike Vick, and Tom Brady, and the Jets and whatever the hell else is happening with the Cowboys. Just keep talking about all that teenager chat.

And you know what?

In Jacksonville, we'll keep ignoring you. Because, here, football happens on the field. It doesn't happen in your make-up rooms. In doesn't happen in your producer's office. It doesn't happen on your tour bus.

This is a field game. Down where the nostrils and armpits roam. And tonight, the Jaguars had the nastiest. Try and work that through your ESPN computer. Or squeeze that through your weird Merril Hodge neck collar. Anyone? Hey, Chris Berman, catch a hypertensive breath and name one Jaguar defender for us. Would ya?

Or don't. It doesn't really matter what you do. Real football fans just love their team, and the game. Not the hype. And for a hype-less team, tonight was all game. And it was a game that belonged to the Jaguars.

Go Jags! Onward. The Teal and Black ARE Coming Back!

Ok. That's a big headline. So what's my support. I have a friend who sends me updates from his iPhone. It was right about Rashad Jennings going to the IR days in advance. And this information just came through the same means. So we shall see. Even now as time passes I've got several other friends catching wind of this. Oh man. How things change. I certainly hope that whoever steps in can get this offense in gear. 

Alright. What a win. This team is dedicated. The Raiders brought a fierce game to the River City, but the Jags countered when it mattered and pulled out a crucial win. So after looking at some replays, here are two little details of otherwise big plays that might go unheralded, but really, made all the difference:

* on Rashad Jennings TD run, Eugene Monroe pulled out left and made a picture perfect block to seal the edge so RJ could stomp his run out for big yardage. The tip-toes became the story, but the block was a detail that made the difference.

* on David Garrard's fantastic throw to Jason Hill, not only did DG finally give enough power and air to a deep ball, but if you watch the replay, Hill makes a stellar last second burst to get himself in perfect position underneath the arch of the throw, right at the last second. It flashes by the eye, but if you study it, the details are there.

So Jag fans, anything else that might have slipped by the first glance? Let's give some credit to the unsung heroes who make the little plays at the right time that help shape the big picture. Go Jags.

...let's not be tools. If Big John's name gets announced at the game this Sunday, at least the first time, Jaguar fans, let's not be spiteful but applaud him one time to let Big John know how much he meant to us during his time here. Then after that, well, then something's will be going wrong with our O-line so it's time to be upset.

So, I'm merely suggesting not just booing the guy, but showing Big John respect for his time as a Jaguar. Groves and Barnes, well, maybe they're best just ignored.

Go Jags! See you in the stands on Sunday!

It was unbelievable. We knew Scobee was capable, but to really pull off a 59-yard game winner in such a tense environment created a magical sports moment many of us may never forget.

The U.S. Soccer team had two moments like this in the World Cup. One when England's goalie inexplicably let a Dempsey strike roll by him into the net. And two, when Donovan rifled in a last second goal to beat Algeria.

Moments like that should live forever. And thanks to smart phones and YouTube, perhaps now they can.

The Colts' timeout called to ice Scobee announced what was coming to everyone watching. The fans were ready. Their cameras were out.

So, enjoy. Follow the link below, where I got almost all of the currently available fan videos from the stadium in one search, and relive the moment. Each video provides a different perspective from EverBank. Each one is great for its own reason. But they're all awesome, cause this moment buried one of our greatest enemies.

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Josh+Scobee+colts&aq=f
(ignore the first video that pops up in the search results)

Ok. Mirror time.

As the Sunday afternoon sun hovered around in a steamy, confused haze...and you stumbled out of a "lemme get my second wind" shower, did you pause...then straighten your mustache and think, "We're gonna win this one today!"

Nope.

Even with a fresh green column of Pinaud Talc, you didn't. This one was a loser from the word "tarmac."

Traveling cross-country for the Jags blows. Yes, polar bears romp around the jungle in ABC's Lost, but Jaguars do not spin the clock backwards and play solid football in Northern Mexico.

Every time our defense produced a fresh pigskin, the offensive unit was happy to give it away. And even our muscled midget spit forth a pea of prosperity for the opposition. Oh how cursed it was. Miller Lite's juvenile "Vortex bottle" strained with all its marketing might to whirlpool me away from the constant throat-cutting that our beloved Jaguars were insistent upon displaying in so many painful ways....but to no avail.

A team record in turnovers.

I simply don't have enough gauze for this one. But, I do have some pain relief nearby, because I was prepared for pain. Any wise Jaguar fan knows that an enemy quarterback with half a head on his shoulders will shit in your mouth and call it a sundae. And so, it was.

But while I nurse these wounds, the questions still remain. Who plays linebacker for the Jags other than Daryl Smith? Who did Dirk Koetter blow to get his job? And by the way, I know that brown stuff on my lips ain't chocolate, but would it hurt to cover a tight end for a change?

We're the Jaguars. I have mouthwash and soon all will be minty fresh. Maybe it's time we rinse our mouths. Take a deep breath. And forget those nasty words we all just said about our team's performance in San Diego. It could be worse...at least Vince Young isn't our quarterback.

There's a rumor going around in some high finance circles that it will be the Bills moving to L.A. They'll move to the NFC West, the Seahawks will go back to the AFC West, Kansas City will move to the AFC South and Indy returns to the AFC East. The L.A. team will play in a huge, ultra posh, new stadium that surpasses Jerry Jones' behemoth in Texas.

For a number of reasons there won't be a team in Toronto. An NFL team there would probably kill the CFL and there's no public funding for a stadium. Ralph Wilson is going to sell the Bills and, from what I hear, the money being talked about in SoCal is staggering. He could probably get 5-6 times more from L.A. interests than from locals to keep the team in Western New York. No one in the Wilson family wants the team. The Bills RIGHT NOW are in play.

Now I heard this in a conversation at an LAX bar with some banker guy and the Jags did come up in our talk but he seemed certain about a few things. One was that the money people want to build a palace of a stadium, two is that they insist on an NFC West team, three is that the Seahawks will go back to the AFC West and four is that it's almost certainly going to be the Bills that move.

Of course you can hear all sorts of things at airport bars....

Love doesn't come easy.

So when you award it to someone or something, it's special. It makes you vulnerable, because you feel a need to guard that which fuels your heart.

Recently, I've expressed my concern about the Jaguars' future in Jacksonville. And in doing so, other readers have questioned my love for the team and whether or not I'm truly a fan. Well, I actually love the Jaguars. I am a true fan. But alas, I must guard my heart.

In essence, I'm a husband who fears that his marriage will soon end in divorce.

Does that reflect on the spirit of a fan? Or does it describe someone who objectively fears that his heart will soon be broken?

It is the latter. It is the writing on the wall. It is the danger that keeps me on guard and worried.

Am I an idiot for that? Perhaps, yes. But throw Mr. Ketchman in that pile with me.

Consider these passages from “Ask Vic” on Monday, July 19th:

Grant from Fernandina Beach, FL
July 19th and not a big push, yet. I’m getting a little nervous.
Vic: So am I.

Dan from Jacksonville
I am a single father with two boys. After work I picked up the kids and headed home. In the mailbox was a thick envelope from the Jags and I instantly knew what it was, my first-ever set of season tickets. . . . The three of us will be at every game because we own the right to be there now.
Vic: That’s a lovely story. I hope you and your family have the best football season of your lives.


Grant's passage ends in obvious concern. Vic provides the clue. The objective reporter's perspective. Sure, he has some love, but not to the extent that we do. He's not so guarded, and he's not so afraid to admit his nerves.

Dan's passage requires more study. His story is sweet. The Jaguar family, excited to finally give it their all. Dan's situation is what Jacksonville needs. But the concern may be that such stories are coming too late. For the subtle hint lies at the end. Vic wishes that Dan's family experiences the best football “season” of their lives. His reference is starkly singular. It sounds like “one and done.” Reporters earn wages from objectivity. His love is not as deep as ours. Nor is his optimism.

Yet, when the season's first funny, brown ball takes to the air, yes, my love will be where it belongs. With our almighty Jaguars. But that love will be guarded. And somewhere in the back of my mind, I'll wonder, “Will I soon be one of those weird misplaced fans? Living nowhere near the team they root for? Like a Yankee fan in South Florida? Or a Cowboy fan in Orlando? Or a Laker fan in Tampa? Or an L.A. Jags fan in Jacksonville?”

You were a good Jag. Not a great one. But we'll miss your class and positive attitude.

One could say the Hayward story is an unfortunate drama. True potential thwarted by nagging injuries. Perhaps he picks up the pieces and moves on to another team. Or, he could just call it a day, deciding that being able to walk later in life is a bit more important than scrambling to regain early career form. Whatever, it is. The roster has been trimmed. A good man lost.

And then, there were 80.

No Line, No Spine

Eons of transition blur reality. Good players become great, because they're familiar. Leading the team in tackles becomes fodder for Pro Bowl accolades and lukewarm improvement at a position charades as stardom throughout the haze of a season. But now the clouds part, the dust settles and the horizon becomes clear. And while the offensive unit has its issues, the greatest challenges lie on the defensive portion of scrimmage, because recognition of hard work and decent stats has blurred the truth. The Jaguars defense needs a better line and a better spine.

Spine
The backbone. Linebackers. Supposedly the triad of Ingram, Durant and Smith are capable. So we've been told. However fans, eyes don't lie and let us examine the following: (1) have they pressured opposing quarterbacks? (2) have they effectively covered tight ends or backs out of the backfield? and (3) have they solidified containment on the corners and executed solid tackles in doing so? Jags' fans know that all of these questions produce answers in the negative. On paper the number of takedowns for some of these Jacksonville position players seems respectable. Yet, games present unique situations which can't be measured on paper. And too many times the linebackers' zone is unmanned and/or unconvincingly guarded. The linebacking-role requires relentless aggression, speed and smarts; whether O, I or M. It's time to ask, does our current trio really possess such tools, or are they merely cleaning up the leftovers that our front four fails to feed upon? Based on game momentum and crucial moments, the answer remains in the latter. While our current backers are athletic, something at the position is lacking. Drafting strong at this position never hurts; although it can be a gamble. But please, do not bring fire and brimstone down upon a rule-handicapped defensive backfield when the current unit of linebackers has repeatedly failed to show success at the three numbered requirements mentioned above. Verdict: Behind our line, plays a unit that's fine. Yet fine at this level will fail, because the great ones prevail. And even with Jack, at LB we lack. No spine.

Line
It's as if they're getting paid merely to massage the pectorals of their enemies. An NFL-low sack total results from consistency; consistent acceptance that man-on-man engagement equals productivity. At the professional level however, engagement alone fails to produce effective results. Creativity, muscle, anticipation and short-area speed shared amongst an attacking concert of four individuals must be present for a defensive line to operate successfully. Gone are such traits in the River City's defensive front. A line of Brackens, Henderson, Stroud and Spicer in prime form is a dream. And one that biological clocks were never to allow. Yet, one can imagine just how such ingredients might penetrate and solidify when called upon. This year however, Groves and Harvey (along with roster-filling journeymen) tried to swim with sharks in an ocean of heavyweights, and all we saw was overrunning, malleability and weak roots. The interior defensive line showed occasional fortitude and outstanding play from Knighton along with a stalwart, yet unimpressive Henderson; thus helping to keep at bay floods of rushing and comfortable pocket-time that opposing offenses truly could have exploited. Don't those wins against Houston still defy explanation? Ultimately, confrontation at scrimmage requires more than contact. Blockers must be shed, unity in execution must rattle offensive strategy and horsepower must be at a maximum. As a Jaguars' fan you know this. Such is why our quarterback so often is toppled while opposing throwers deposit stainless jerseys into the wash. Drafty day remedies for game-changing defensive linemen come with measurable unpredictability. Those wearing teal and black on church day with beer and hot dog in hand hope Mr. G. Smith prognosticates defensive line skills that will create a championship defense, comprised of a front four with run-stopping power and closing speed on enemy quarterbacks. This season has however shown that the Jaguars' defensive ends represent the beginnings of a stat-padding day for teams that could otherwise be overcome. Verdict: With a secondary confused and linebackers overused, the men up front must press on...lest the chances of winning are gone.

Conclusion: Football is a game of tendency. When an enemy offensive unit converts third downs early on, even if they don't score, a tendency is shown. Revealed is the ability to win the battle of the beef, to win the battle of X's and O's, and to dictate the pace of the game. While the Jaguars offense showed some spark this year, the defense consistently dragged. Tendencies leaned against the mighty cats, and Jack's specialty became Tucker's folly. Can the gap from almost-there to sacked be closed? Only Gene Smith knows, and until we have answers, we're hosed. This defense needs a real line. And a real, not hyped, spine. Backers and linemen for the Jags must play with smarts, speed and power once again. Like Brackens, Hardy, Stroud and Big Hen. The adversary receiving snap must fall hard in 2010.

Go Jags!

Hello to all at BCC.

We're all impressed aren't we? My hands are shaking with anticipation and can't wait to get into the Jack this Sunday and root for our fighting Jags! And now are you with me? Let's show our thanks for the efforts of our players and be there loud and proud to send T.O. and the ailing Bills home with a loss.

So, some key points from this Sunday's game:
1. Garrard and MJD: Our stalwarts. These guys can control the pace of the game when firing on all cylinders.
2. Receiving Corps: Holy molasses! Fun to watch and great hands, even Marcedes Lewis looked like a top pick.
3. Back to Basics: Welcome home 4-3. Please don't leave us again.
4. Coaching: All those calling for heads, please remain seated. Del Rio has reasserted control and the players are responding.
5. Tears for Dillard: J. Dillard is a competitor and I feel for him and his broken ankle. Baby Holt will have to come back next season, and we all wish him a trouble-free return to health.
6. Scobee, Calm: It was just an extra point, but my nuts were on the floor. He booted it through like a pro.
7. Rookies: Can't say enough. Just speechless at the clutch play we're getting from this draft class.
8. Groves: I'm guessing he's not a good dancer.

Ok all. Let's agree this season is way more fun than we could have expected. So take advantage of the fever, the weather, and a group of young players who are frothing at the mouth for more wins.

We'll see you in the seats on Sunday. Go Jags! Onward to 6-4!

While we scramble for solutions to the ticket sales drought in Jacksonville, a certain bewildered population of nearby football fans proffer the argument that drafting Tebow would be a cure all.

Well, if that theory were true, then certainly the signing of legendary Brett Favre by the Vikings, as a sure bet to propel them deep into the playoffs (which looks like it might actually be happening), would have the same effect there. And his revered status in the mid-West would cure the Vikings ticket sales woes, too. Right?

This according to PFT, speaks to the contrary:
"According to John Holler of VikingUpdate.com, 4,000 tickets remain for November 15 against Detroit, and 3,500 are unsold for the following Sunday against Seattle."

"So even with the Favre factor and a 7-1 start to the season, the Vikings will have to hustle in order to lift the local blackout for games."

You mean, one player doesn't cure ticket sales? That's right. One player, unless he buys all the remaining tickets for friends, will not cure ticket sales. The local community cures. And if Father Time isn't cramming the stadium in the town of his former rival, then it's doubtful that an out-of-position paladin can work miracles here in Jacksonville. Amen.

 Shooting through the line. Is it magic? Strength? Speed?

We've all seen it. Teams with overpowering defensive lines shooting players through gaps like darts headed for the ball. The meat of the game.

New York's Giants repeat the procedure almost every snap. And Baltimore practically invented it. Nothing smothers and dominates a game like a defensive line that consumes play from every angle. The Jaguars used to know how to do this.

But today, the opposing teams' quarterbacks seem so far away. Or sometimes, just one step away. That one step, is the key. That one step is the difference between a punt, and a first down. First downs lead to touchdowns.

So into our fair city enter the Rams. Oh how they long for a win. Bulger can throw. They have the guys to catch the ball too. Plus, #39 is a big, fast, powerful back. He wants the ball. And they're giving it to him.

Ignore the records. Ignore the attendance. The greatest measure of this game will be...one step. A small gap, which we hope our Jaguars can close.

Go Jags!

It's hard to stomach Sunday's events in Seattle. But as good Jaguars fans, we must forget, forgive and look forward to the game this weekend against the Rams. Before the game even started last week, we were out two critical starters, both of whom were impact playmakers for our team. The Jags flew cross-country and were exposed for the failures on both lines.

Let us remember that the Jaguars are still patching open sores left by the Harris regime. Occasional slip ups are to be expected, and as much as we want consistency, it's still too early to expect patterns of reliability from a team that is rebuilding its core.

Even with all that, a .500 record is still in our sights. And rest assured, practice is gonna be rough and tumble this week for our beloved warriors. This Sunday, our guys will be hungry. And the Rams will be the meal.

Go Jaguars! Onward to 3-3!

let this be evidence that i'm no poet, but the Jaguars need some love and inspiration struck....ahead we must go...I wrote this just for our little community here at Big Cat Country...I hope you like it and I hope you stick with our fellas.

Jaguars Rally Poem
These days shall pass one after the other,
while north flows strong our mighty ol' river.
But now's the time for the hand of a brother
to cheer for the Jags and help punish your liver.

On move the chains as we shoot for the top,
and fear not when tides pull us astray.
Dear friend! Hide your beer cause here comes a cop,
yet deep into playoffs we'll play.

The names will all change and the uniforms might too,
but down in our hearts is what's real.
For that man with the ball was not wearing blue,
you've been crushed by the gold, black and teal.

Go Jaguars!

Well. First, the city of Jacksonville and its grip on the Jaguars, but that's neither here nor there.

More pertinent, your answer is....ESPN. Narrow sports coverage is really beginning to shred holes in their once prodigal ability to provide American males with genuine athletic entertainment. To experience this sandpaper-rough coverage, just switch the television to whatever two digit number lands you on their broadcast.

You'll probably hear/see updates and "in-depth" analysis of the following professional sports franchises/figures: Yankees, Red Sox, Patriots, Cowboys, Michael Vick, Brett Farve. In fact, if you hear anything other than that, please don't freak out. You still have ESPN, just take a breath, and all will revert to normal soon. They can't go 10 minutes without rehashing these same storylines with one of their bald, glassed men or some spikey-haired butch female. If I had the venture capital, I'd be starting a network to force this has-been sports network into the shadows. For reference on this matter, please see the once-cool MTV, and their slide into teenage anonymity.

As for the game, certainly the Jaguars looked well-coached and played a much tighter game tonight than in the previous fake games this season. Our personnel stood face-to-face with the Eagles and at times looked to be the tougher unit.

And it should be clear that roster spots exist for Brian Iwuh, Tyron Brackenridge, Jarret Dillard, Tiquan Underwood, Scott Starks and Chauncey Washington. If they were bubble-guys for you, make them cement guys. Also, many props are deserved by other players and once again, Josh Vaughan certainly does move the pile.

In closing, our season will depend on Garrard's feel for the pocket and his ability to control those idiotic, repeat sideline throws that DB's thirst for. Troy Williamson and Tory Holt are getting open. So, the offensive line needs to do their part, and if David comes through, we'll have more quality completions than last year.

Atta' Boy's also go to: Reggie Hayward, Russell Allen, Quentin Groves, Derrick Harvey, MJD and Rashean Mathis.

In summary, I hope the unity and focus continues. It showed tonight. But the O-line needs to improve, as without a doubt, it is currently our team's largest hindrance to advancement.

Finally, ESPN is less than stellar. In fact, it sucks. But, face it, when you've got Park Place and Boardwalk, they don't call you Rich Uncle Pennybags for nothing.

Go Jags. Spit in the camera and kick some ass. AFC South here we come!

Hello again Jaguars fans. Sorry about the hiatus, but excessive speculation makes my soul wilt. That said, allow me to excessively speculate as to why Vic is wrong.

Vic repeatedly states that wide receivers are a dime-a-dozen. He says you can find them anywhere. Waivers. Practice squads. Undrafted. Yet, are you getting the feeling that the Jaguars could be roundly beefed and soundly talented this season in most areas...except for the passing game? Evidence of such a notion comes to us firsthand from local media. Reports from camp bring details of the drops. Of wideout hamstring pulls and ankle injuries.

While I can comfortably speculate (after a hefty sip of a Nyquil-Robitussin cocktail) that our defense will be surprisingly rigid, and our offensive line will just say no to thugs, I can't help but worry that we have pocket change for receivers when we need cash money. Holt will be a star. But these rookies, and the real man who deserves the prefix Fragile (M. Walker), have the weight of our offensive progression in their hands. And sweet Marie, let's hope they catch it, in bounds, all season. Such is the course of our quest for the AFC South.

And hey Vic, can I borrow ten cents?

Go Jags.

Hey guys, I'm a Jaguar fan. But a great friend of mine is (and always has been) a major Oakland Raiders fan. Anyway, he made a Raiders song called "Radiers in the House" and made a video that he put up on YouTube.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VWXK2gjt1Aw

I thought you guys might like it. It's got some pretty cool lyrics and covers a lot of Raider nation and history. Enjoy it and good luck this season.

These rookies look amazing. Wait. Oh yeah. Chad Owens. Wait.

Rob Meier is a beast. Wait. He's starting now? Oh.

Man. Patience hurts, but promise tastes so good. Young legs with spit-shined morals feel better than a quick tequila and Advil shot, but wait, something's missing, right?

Are we missing pads? Are we missing opposing players who have similarly improved? Are we missing game situations, with referees, with opposing crowds? And where's Jackson deVille? Did he work out over the offseason too? Is he training with Luke?

Yet, newness rules. As does shopping for groceries when hungry.

All seems well. We've brought in Boy Scouts who have actually climbed the mountain and come down with the flag. But this is a different mountain.

Until the pads come out, their mountains were merely hills. And as fans, we're stuck. We have to wait.

Oh yeah. Now I remember. Chad Owens.

All this talk of the draft has got my head spinning! Who are the Jaguars going to take? Plenty of media outlets have the Jaguars selecting a QB, which is (as we know) puzzling but a nice twist to what's expected. But the really big-dog, national "know nothing about the Jaguars" media has us selecting Crabtree. BARF! How many times can we go to the well before we realize it's dry?

Where does this leave Jaguars' fans? Still confused. Awaiting another slow, technical draft day, that makes us feel like football is near again. Yet it's merely a ruse to sell advertising. The event would be just as exciting if  you had a .rtf file emailed to you the next day with the results listed.

And now for the finale...think back to last season, and maybe the one before that...

Regarding the Jaguars, which side of the ball needs more help? Offense or defense? Do we need to keep the chains moving more? Or do we need the defense to get off the field on third downs? Is MJD a threat to score from anywhere on the field? Or is a polished passing attack from our opponent more of a threat?

Thoughts?

Seriously. A year ago, I was forced to toil with only Jaguars.com, or maybe Jacksonville.com. But I think we all know that the Florida Times Union routinely underperforms in its reporting on the Jaguars. And then Jagnation.com. Well, I don't know if that site is too speculative or the fact that you've got to pay to read anything worthwhile, but honestly, I don't even go there anymore.

Without question BCC has stamped its place in the Jaguars community as a lively, reliable site that provides fresh content everyday. Imagine life without it.

I'd just like to take this opportunity to once again thank the guys in charge and everyone else who contributes. This site is really special and I hope it's here for a long time to come. Go Jags.

BREAKING NEWS!!! Matt Jones gets his walking papers!!!

Another first round pick of the Jaguars crumbles into nothingness. Although the previous fan post turned out to be a joke, this one is for real.

The "king of Arkansas" has lost his passport to Florida and has been released by the Jaguars. Now certainly, some team will pick him up, as there is no question that he has the reach and hands to haul in some passes.

But, here in Jacksonville, the axe of Gene the Destroyer has fallen yet again.

Visit jaguars.com for the scoop...

Run left! Tra Thomas is joining the Jags...

The Jaguars and LT Tra Thomas have reached agreement on final terms. Visit jaguars.com and you'll see tis' true. This seems like a conservative, yet wise move by the front office.

Do we all agree this is a smart move? Tra Thomas is old; so this move is only a temporary fix. Does this change the approach to the draft? We still need a young LT for the future, so I would argue not.

(This will be the second Philly Eagle signed by the Jags this offseason.)

[From deep within Jacksonville Municipal Stadium, comes a tale of determination, prognostication, wine and cheese.] [Some Jaguars fiction, just for fun.]

The coach's door swung open and in walked Gene Smith, newly appointed GM for the Jaguars. Gene was a big fella and he immediately dropped himself like a lead weight into a black leather chair across from Del Rio's desk. Del Rio took the final sip from a glass of red wine, nibbled on a piece of cheddar and an apple. Then looked Gene right in the face.

“You're cutting the whole team, Gene. Plan on leaving me any players?”

Gene replied, “I'm just trying to cure your ills, Jack. We've gotta get rid of some of these disrespectful, team-killing sons-of-guns that this guy let creep in here.” As he says “this guy” Gene points to a dart board on the wall in Jack's office, which has a picture of Shack Harris' face tacked to it. A dart piercing his forehead.

“Ok. Well, Fred aside, the decisions so far, I guess...I agree with. But what about Sensabaugh?” Del Rio asked.

“Why, Jack? Are you in the market for a sawed-off shotgun or something? Or a Glock? Hey, I bet he'd make a good bodyguard,” Gene remarked with cynicism.

“I get your point. Fine, release him.” Jack stared off into nowhere.

“Ok, Jack. Enjoy the wine. We'll talk about Khalif tomorrow.” Gene stood up, grabbed a piece of cheddar, picked up a dart from Jack's desk, launched it somewhere near Shack's ear, then walked out.

Jack was left alone and with a sigh, opened his desk drawer. In the drawer, among other things, was his favorite mouthpiece from his playing days. Many a quarterback was taken down as Jack's teeth gnashed this sturdy bit of rubber.

“Cut anyone else Gene, and I might have to put this baby back to use.” Jack shut the drawer, poured a fresh glass of wine, and thought, blitz.

Dear Patriots fans,

Allow me to ignore the playoff defeat from 2007 and say we will now be sharing a great friend. On behalf of the entire Jaguar community to the Pats, you've just picked up an outstanding person, and one nasty, fast and agile running back in Fred Taylor.

Fred has played for the Jags since 1998 and has done nothing less than impress our whole fan base with his relentless play and genuine character. As a Jaguar fan, I'm very happy to see that Fred has ended up on a world-class team like the Patriots, and I'll also honestly tell you that in secret, I'll be pulling for Fred to stack up the yards and TDs for you guys.

Remember these words, you're going to be VERY happy with that signing and you'll get a chance to see how great of a player Fred really is.

Please take care of our Freddie-T, cause he's gonna take care of you,

Go Fred. Go Jags. And well, that's it.

Drafting a young, strong Left Tackle is a must and every Jaguar fan should be at least a little excited about that possibility.

But what about this idea for the other positions. Leave Meester at center, Manuwai comes back to Left Guard, then shift Pashos into Right Guard and let Khalif Barnes have a shot at Right Tackle. It's a bit less demanding but would put his athleticism to use. Also, this would put the stone-footed giant (Pashos) into a Guard position where he could really do some steam rolling. Plus, that leaves Mo Williams in a versatile, gap-filler role, ready to pick up anyone's slack.

Just a thought. What are your thoughts on the Jags O-line and how we can get the most out of the talent currently on the team and new talent from the draft?

So, let's start moving on. Where is Fred gonna go? Please God, not the AFC South! Think about it though, does Fred hate cold weather? Is he a Florida boy only?

Where do you think Fred will end up? Or what do you think is a good fit for him?

Personally, I could see him benefitting Green Bay, Tampa Bay, New England, or heck, may even Denver.

It's tough to think about, but I'd love to hear your thoughts. Go Jags. 

So after my last controversial post, in which I called out a surprising list of players as cancers and lame-wads, I would like to clarify things in the name of holiday cheer and illuminate the silver linings which are managing to show through this cloudy season.

Firstly, hats off to the Jaguars for the Indy game. David Garrard and MJD are world-class players. Their skills and talent exploded mightily the night of that “slow death” loss; yet in doing so, a glimpse of possibility was displayed. So let’s begin and God bless to all:

The Rays of Hope:

1.       David Garrard: I was chatting with a rather snooty Redskin fan of mine about the Jags’ hard luck and he said to me, “You know who you’re best player is, right?” I immediately thought and responded, “Maurice Jones-Drew.”    “Nope,” he says. “David Garrard. He is awesome.” I was amazed. My hardcore, asshole Redskin-fan friend actually said that, and you know what, he’s right. David has a great arm, he makes great throws, and he is strongly mobile. You’ve seen him perform in the middle of turmoil, and he does it all with a winner’s attitude. Trust my friend here. He’s a jerk, but in this case, he’s right. David, is as Vic Ketchman says, “The Man”.

2.       Maurice Jones-Drew: Duh. If this wasn’t obvious, then you must play tennis, everyday. We’ve got Brian Westbrook-reborn right here on the First Coast, and that’s great news. Cause picking up after Freddie-T won’t be easy. Luckily Pocket Hercules is up to the challenge. At 5’7” he gets leverage like a crowbar and pops both linebackers and safeties off their feet like a burglar does to door locks on a Lincoln TownCar. And, is he our best receiver?

3.       Jack Del Rio: Don’t laugh. This guy has put up with shootings, coke snorting and contract disputes, but he still has class and holds steady with a firm chin. Plus, you know you love those
4th down attempts. Admit it. Jack is a tough bitch, and he’s proven it. Look around the league. Is there anyone else you’d want on the Jaguar throne? If Wayne Weaver is grandpa, Jack’s our dad and he’s a damn good one.

And well, that’s it. Not many rays. Nothing from the defense was available here. Possibly an honorable mention goes to Clint Ingram, as he’s really shown himself to be an impact player as of late. But I don’t want to hear anything about Daryl Smith, Justin Durant or any goofball from our defensive line. Our defense simply fails on 3rd down time and time again, and it just cost our offensive darlings a game.

I’d also like to finish with a special note. And that is this: the following names will be of two players who are absolutely terrible and if they never wore a Jaguar uniform again I would not cry, even over onions: Khalif Barnes and Reggie Nelson. Penalties on offense are drive killers Khalif, especially when they’re not necessary (although he did get hosed on a call against Indy, oh yeah Mercedes Benz’ belong on the road, not in trees), and constantly getting to the ball “just a bit late” doesn’t cut it (neither do half-ass tackles, Reggie). Sorry Gator fans, Reggie has cost this team games. That’s games, not a game, but multiple games. I simply don’t think he has the intelligence to survey an NFL field. Quarterbacks can out fox this dude with a flick here, a look there, a head nod this way, a pump fake that way. The only thing he’s “erased” are a couple W’s from the Jaguars win column.

Alas, this is about the Rays of Hope. It's about Santa, about elves, reindeer and the offseason. Before this all goes up in smoke and out your holiday chimney, remember this: the Jaguars are not going away. They are not far from the North Star, they will not go quietly into that good night. The problems will be fixed, our rays will shine through the clouds, and 2009 will be a day of reckoning for the rest of the AFC South. Even if Jack himself has to put the pads back on. God bless.