Strange shoutout from Pederson ahead of Jaguars - Bills

As the Jacksonville Jaguars head into a Monday night clash with the Buffalo Bills, head coach Doug Pederson had some praise to dish out about his team’s preparation. Sitting at 0-2 – tight losses of 20-17 Dolphins and 18-13 Browns already on the board – the Jaguars are in a tricky spot, and now face a formidable 2-0 Bills at Highmark Stadium.

Despite their rocky start, though, Pederson remains optimistic, giving a nod to his players when he met with the media at the weekend.

“They’ve done a great job this week,” he began. “I thought the guys handled the week fine. There has been obviously, rightfully so, criticism around the team, different things. They’ve handled all that well. We just have to go play. It’s been a long week. Looking forward to Monday night.

“The energy level, the excitement, the enthusiasm, because really, does anybody like to practice? It’s practice, right? But the way they approach that. They just focused in on Buffalo and what they need to.”

Strange in for Engram

The coach was clear about Evan Engram’s situation, confirming that a hamstring injury will keep him out of contention for Monday night, although hopes are that the tight end will be back next week. In his place steps Brenton Strange once again, and Pederson was happy to big up the second-year TE.

“I think it was big for Brenton,” the coach said referring to the three passes caught by Strange against the Browns, which gained 65 yards. “That’s the type of player we know that he is, that he’s capable being. He did some really good things. He played well.

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“He played, too in the run game, which is good to see. He has done that since he has been here. It just adds more to his confidence. He continues to grow with the offense as he gets more opportunity.”

Jaguars schedule

Following the trip to Buffalo, the Jaguars’ next five opponents come in the form of Texans, Colts, Bears, Patriots and Packers. By the time we reach the end of October, Pederson will have a much better idea of just where this team sits in the pecking order.