The Cleveland Browns might not have a great quarterback on the field on Sunday, but he might still be able to outperform his rival.
C.J. Beathard could be in line to start for the Jacksonville Jaguars if Trevor Lawrence cannot go, and he’s also dealing with a left shoulder injury, so it’s not like he’s going to be at full strength.
Lawrence suffered a high ankle injury during the Jaguars’ overtime loss to the Cincinnati Bengals and was unable to put any weight on it on his way to the locker room.
However, there’s still a chance that he’s going to be able to suit up and take the field on Sunday, but HC Doug Pederson refused to confirm that information (via Ian Rapoport on Twitter).
#Jaguars coach Doug Pederson tells reporters that QB Trevor Lawrence's game status will be determined by how practice goes today and answered "probably so" when asked if he'll be a game-time decision. On a short week, Lawrence is dealing with a high-ankle sprain.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 8, 2023
It seems like he’s likely going to be a game-time decision, and it’ll all depend on how well he performs in practice leading up to the game.
What’s clear is that he’s not going to be at full strength even if he’s cleared to play, and that’s mouth-watering for Jim Schwartz’s defensive front.
Having your QB playing on one leg against the likes of Za’Darius Smith, Dalvin Tomlinson, and Myles Garrett might not be the wisest bet, especially with the playoffs in sight.
The Jaguars know they cannot cede more ground in their run for the AFC South division title, but losing Lawrence for more weeks could only make it tougher for them.
They’re on a short week, and facing the league’s best pass-rushing unit on the road might be the last thing the doctor ordered.
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