Travis Etienne scored two touchdowns, Foyesade Oluokun returned an interception for a score, and Christian Kirk’s 44-yard touchdown gave the Jacksonville Jaguars a 31-24 victory over the New Orleans Saints on Thursday night.
Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence, who returned from a sprained knee, led Jacksonville with 59 yards rushing and completed 20 of 29 passes for 204 yards and one touchdown. This win gives the Jags their best start of the season since 2007.
Kirk’s touchdown broke the tie with 3:08 left in the game. The Saints had a chance to respond, but failed to convert on four straight incomplete passes when they drove inside the Jacksonville 10-yard line in the final minute.
Jacksonville gave the Saints numerous opportunities to stay in the game, with two fumbles in the first half and several untimely penalties throughout.
The Saints managed to rally from a 24-9 deficit to tie the game, but once again struggled to finish drives in the end zone. Jacksonville’s defense held strong, preventing the Saints from completing their comeback.
Carr finished with 301 passing yards for the Saints, who outgained Jacksonville 407 yards to 330. However, their inability to finish drives proved costly, as they fell short once again.
Lawrence, who was listed as questionable after practicing on a limited basis, had a strong start to the game and set the tone for the Jaguars. Etienne’s two rushing touchdowns helped secure the win.
Both teams had their share of injuries, with Andre Cisco leaving the field late in the third quarter for the Jaguars and Carr appearing to be in pain for the Saints.
Next up, the Jaguars will travel to Pittsburgh on October 29, while the Saints will visit Indianapolis on the same day.
Saints: Visit Indianapolis on Oct. 29.
