The Jacksonville Jaguars defeated the Cleveland Browns 34-10 Sunday at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, opening their 2026 Week 1 schedule with a physical performance. The Jaguars outrushed the Browns 126-87, registered five sacks on Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson and allowed one sack on quarterback Trevor Lawrence.
John Oehser’s five-storyline examination of the victory highlights Jacksonville’s rushing attack, its fast start, Parker Washington’s receiving performance and a strong opening effort from a reworked offensive line.
Jacksonville Jaguars Set a Physical Tone
The Jaguars’ physical approach showed up in the rushing and sack totals. Jacksonville held a 126-87 advantage on the ground, while its defense recorded five sacks of Watson and allowed only one sack of Lawrence.
“I thought we were definitely the more physical unit,” Jaguars head coach Liam Coen said.
“We play at our best as a team here in Jacksonville when we’re playing grimy, physical nasty and we’re flying around with relentless pursuit. That’s in all three phases,” Coen said.
Bhayshul Tuten Makes His First NFL Start
Bhayshul Tuten made his first NFL start and rushed for 66 yards on 15 carries. Tuten and Chris Rodriguez Jr. are expected to be key parts of the Jaguars’ running game, an area of focus throughout the offseason.
“It was a great start,” Tuten said. “We came out moving the ball like we wanted to. Looked explosive overall, in the pass game, run game, blocking-wise, and I think that’s what we wanted to showcase.”
Trevor Lawrence Leads Jacksonville’s Fast Start
Lawrence completed 13 of 18 passes for 166 yards and three touchdowns in the first half. The Jaguars led 24-0 at halftime.
“We had a great week of practice,” Lawrence said. “It felt like there was a really good understanding of the plan from everyone on offense by the end of the week.”
Lawrence said that being in his second season working with Coen and offensive coordinator Grant Udinski helped with preparation.
Parker Washington Delivers an Early Receiving Impact
Parker Washington led the game with five receptions and 83 receiving yards, adding one touchdown. All five of his receptions came in the first half, including a 30-yard diving touchdown catch that opened the scoring.
“I was just having fun,” Washington said. “I just wanted to bring energy and go out there and celebrate with the guys and have a great win today.”
Jacksonville Jaguars Offensive Line Opens Strongly
The Jaguars’ offensive line had a strong start to the season after several changes to the group. Cole Van Lanen started at right tackle after missing the preseason and much of training camp while on the Physically Unable to Perform list following offseason knee surgery.
Anton Harrison made his first career start at left tackle after starting on the right side during his first three seasons. Rookie Emmanuel Pregnon made his first career start at left guard, while Ezra Cleveland started at right guard after starting on the left side the previous season.
“I thought they did an awesome job,” Lawrence said of the offensive line. The group helped Jacksonville outrush Cleveland 126-87 while allowing one sack of Lawrence.
Source: Original report