JACKSONVILLE – In the aftermath of the Jacksonville Jaguars’ 31-18 victory over the Miami Dolphins in a 2023 Preseason Week 3 game at EverBank Stadium on Saturday, head coach Doug Pederson addressed the media in a thoughtful and reflective postgame press conference.
1. A Difficult but Right Decision: One of the key moments in the game came when Dolphins wide receiver Daewood Davis was injured and had to be taken off the field on a stretcher. Pederson and Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel had to make a crucial decision – whether to continue the game or call it off. They ultimately chose to call it off, citing the players’ body language and mindset after the incident. It was a challenging choice because many of the players on the field were fighting for roster spots before the upcoming deadline. However, Pederson emphasized that player safety is of utmost importance, even in preseason games. “It was the right thing to do at that time,” Pederson affirmed. “This game is all about player safety.”
2. Robinson Shines on Last Opportunity: Cam Robinson, who will serve a four-game suspension at the start of the regular season, made his second consecutive start at left tackle and impressed Pederson with his performance. Pederson acknowledged that Robinson had struggled in the previous preseason game but commended his rebound in this game. Despite the late decision to start him, Robinson embraced the opportunity and showcased his talent and consistency. “He showed up tonight,” Pederson expressed. “He did a nice job, very consistent, and really the Cam of old that we all know he can be.”
3. Ridley’s Remarkable Comeback: Calvin Ridley, the veteran wide receiver who missed the 2022 season due to a suspension, had an impactful performance in his first Jaguars game in Jacksonville. Ridley, who joined the team last November through a trade with the Atlanta Falcons, has been displaying his speed and explosiveness throughout the preseason and training camp. Pederson praised Ridley’s ability to adapt to the Jaguars’ system and his determination to make the most of his second chance. “He did some really nice things early in the football game,” Pederson shared. “It was really good to see.”
4. Effective Running Game: Pederson lauded the performance of running back Travis Etienne Jr. and expressed overall satisfaction with the team’s running game. After rushing for 145 yards in each of the previous two preseason games, the Jaguars recorded 130 yards on the ground in this game. Both rookie running back Tank Bigsby and Etienne showcased their skills, with Bigsby rushing for 37 yards and Etienne contributing 39 yards and a touchdown. Pederson emphasized Etienne’s improvement and consistency, noting his resilience after missing his rookie season due to injury. “He’s maturing and really embracing his opportunity,” Pederson commented.
5. Leadership and Motivation: As Pederson reflects on entering his second regular season as head coach, he credits the team’s locker room dynamic and the familiarity of the players with his coaching style. He commends the leadership within the team, stating that the players no longer require external motivation as they can motivate themselves. Pederson is proud of the team’s progress and the player-driven mentality he has witnessed throughout training camp. “I feel like that as the head coach, I don’t necessarily have to motivate these players,” Pederson explained. “They can motivate themselves now.”
