The Jacksonville Jaguars continued their impressive start to the 2025 NFL season with a hard-fought 17-10 victory over the Houston Texans in Week 3.
A key figure in this win was rookie wide receiver Travis Hunter, whose standout performance has reignited discussions about the Jaguars’ team culture drawing parallels to Hunter’s former college team, the Colorado Buffaloes. However, Hunter himself was quick to downplay those comparisons, emphasizing the unique identity the Jaguars are building.
After logging a career-high 80 snaps in Week 2, Hunter saw his role increase even more against the Texans, taking on a heavier workload and helping to carry the team’s offense.
In the post-game interview, a reporter asked Hunter about the similarities between the Jaguars’ environment and the culture he experienced at Colorado, where he played two seasons and amassed an impressive 2,625 snaps, leading the FBS in that span.
Hunter’s response was brief but pointed: “We just got our work to do. We just continue to win and keep coming out to show up for the families.”
His succinct answer reflected his focus on the present and future of the Jaguars rather than dwelling on past comparisons. Hunter’s decision to leave the stage shortly afterward further emphasized his desire to concentrate on the team’s growth instead of external narratives.
Jaguars’ defense and Etienne Jr. secure the win
While Hunter’s offensive contributions were crucial, it was the Jaguars’ defense and running back Travis Etienne Jr. who truly sealed the victory. Etienne carried the ball 15 times for 56 yards, including the game-winning 10-yard touchdown run late in the fourth quarter.
Despite Houston’s defensive schemes designed to halt the run, Etienne found gaps and broke through, providing Jacksonville with a critical cushion in the closing moments.
Jacksonville’s defense consistently disrupted Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud throughout the game. The Jaguars recorded two sacks, forced three turnovers, and frequently forced Houston into three-and-out situations, limiting their offensive momentum.
Key defensive plays included an interception by Jourdan Lewis in the red zone and a crucial fumble recovery by Devin Lloyd after Tyson Campbell forced the turnover. Josh Hines-Allen also made a pivotal impact by tipping a pass late in the game that Antonio Johnson intercepted, effectively sealing the win.
Offensively, Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence faced challenges with accuracy, completing just 20 of 40 passes for 222 yards and throwing one interception. Despite his struggles, Lawrence delivered a crucial 46-yard completion to Brian Thomas Jr. on the final scoring drive, helping set up Etienne’s decisive touchdown.
Tight end Brenton Strange also contributed by leading the team with six catches for 61 yards, providing a reliable target when the offense needed it most.
Despite some inconsistencies, penalties, and dropped passes, the Jaguars demonstrated resilience and determination. The team improved to 2-0 at home and 1-0 in the AFC South, signaling a promising outlook for the season.
Jaguars general manager James Gladstone praised Hunter’s rare talent and leadership qualities, calling him “a rare player who challenges the boundaries of the game.” With Hunter’s unique two-way versatility and the team’s solid defensive foundation, Jacksonville looks poised to build a competitive future.
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