New England Patriots: JC Jackson ready for major matchup
By Sam Minton
JC Jackson has had a pretty good rookie season for the New England Patriots, but he will have a big test in Week 15.
The New England Patriots seem to find good players in the unlikeliest of places. Players who the rest of the NFL turn their backs on seem to thrive in New England. JC Jackson is just another example in the Patriots long history of undrafted free agents.
I have been surprised by Jackson’s success. He has 2 interceptions and 11 tackles this season.
Jackson has done a good job of locking guys down and has become a mainstay in the Patriots secondary.
More from Chowder and Champions
- 3 Midseason Chaim Bloom Decisions That Have Killed the 2023 Red Sox
- 10 Patriots Who Will Be Cut by Tuesday’s Roster Deadline
- MLB Screws Red Sox Fans With Broadcast for Mookie Betts Return
- 3 Most Underpaid Celtics Heading Into the 2023 Season
- Red Sox Continue Rollercoaster Season With Massive Win
He has started the last two games and has been pretty great. Jackson has only allowed 5 catches on 9 targets for 38 yards.
The cornerback was one of the reasons the Patriots managed to lose in Week 14. Jackson was on the field for what is now being called the “Miami Miracle.” He had two opportunities to make a tackle but failed.
It seemed like Jackson just gave up on the play almost like he expected someone else to make a tackle. Going over that film must have been a horrible experience for him.
In Week 15 Jackson will have a chance to rebound. New England’s secondary will be put to the test.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have arguably the best wide receiving group in the entire NFL. Antonio Brown and JuJu Smith-Schuster are amazing pass catchers. They could cause problems for the New England Patriots defense.
JC Jackson is ready for the challenge.
"“Man, it’s going to be crazy, because I used to watch these guys play, and now you get a chance to line up,” Jackson said Wednesday. “It’s like, damn, like Antonio Brown? I’m guarding him? But I’m ready, though. I feel like I’m ready for it.”"
The New England Patriots need a win in Week 15. They need a first-round bye in the playoffs. If not I think it could be a short postseason for New England.
So the Patriots are going to need a strong performance from JC Jackson and the secondary. If not it could be a long day for New England.