Physical Jags Deliver in Liam Coen’s Debut, Defeat Panthers 26–10

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The 2025 season started off with a bang as the Jaguars decisively defeated the Carolina Panthers 26-10. This was Jaguars HC Liam Coen's highly anticipated coaching debut. Many wondered what this team would look like. From the very first press conference, Coen said he wanted to be physical and run the football. Both of those expectations showed up in full effect on Sunday.

The Jags rushed for over 200 yards — their most in a season opener since 2022, when they rushed for 246 yards against the Colts. They were led in the run game by running back Travis Etienne, who rushed for 143 yards on 16 carries. Etienne had a game-changing 71-yard rush to get the Jags into scoring position. The Jaguars used all four running backs in the game. LeQuint Allen served as the designated third-down back, while Etienne, Bigsby, and Tuten rotated on early downs.

The defense was led by captains Foye Oluokun and Jourdan Lewis. Both showed up in huge ways. Oluokun forced two turnovers in the first half, and Lewis had a key pass breakup on Hunter Renfrow and sealed the game with an interception. Defensive Coordinator Anthony Campanile preached physicality — and that's exactly what he got. The defense held the Panthers to 255 total yards, forced three turnovers, and stopped two drives on downs.

Cam Little led the special teams unit by making four field goals, with a long of 47 yards.


Offensive Player of the Game: Travis Etienne — 16 carries, 143 yards; 3 catches, 13 yards.

Defensive Player of the Game: Foye Oluokun — 10 tackles (6 solo), 1 pass deflection, 1 interception, 1 forced fumble.


Game Spotlights

Dazzling Debut for the Free Agents

Game 1 saw strong debuts from the free-agent acquisitions brought in over the offseason.
Offensive linemen Patrick Mekari and Robert Hainsey anchored a dominant run game that totaled 200 rushing yards. WR Dyami Brown added 3 catches for 52 yards. Safety Eric Murray brought toughness to the defense with several hard hits and pass breakups, finishing with 7 tackles (3 solo) and 2 passes defended. The leader of the free-agent class, Jourdan Lewis, had an exceptional performance: 5 tackles (3 solo), 3 passes defended, 1 interception, and 1 QB hit.

This group immediately proved they can contribute and lead this team in 2025.


Improved Offensive Line

One of the biggest questions entering the season was what the offensive line would look like. In Game 1, they looked dominant — helping rush for 200 yards and allowing zero sacks. A great way to start the season.


Anton Harrison Injuries

Outside of the penalties, the one negative was offensive tackle Anton Harrison leaving the game late with back issues. More information is expected on Tuesday regarding the severity, but it will be something to monitor. Chuma Edoga stepped in to finish the game at right tackle.


Next Week: @ Bengals (1-0)

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