Quick Take: Dolphins/Jaguars

Published: Dec 08, 2009 at 10:17 AM

In Brief

» Last meeting: David Garrard passed for 229 yards and two touchdowns to lead the Jaguars past the Dolphins, 24-10, in Week 13 of the 2006 season.
» Streaks: Jacksonville has a 3-1 overall series lead, including the playoffs.
» Last week: Miami rallied to defeat rival New England, 22-21. ... Jacksonville got a key home victory over Houston, 23-18.

Keep your eye on ...Torry Holt's veteran influence: Jacksonville has a very young team, and many players on the roster were either not with the team during its 2007 playoff run, or had limited roles. Holt was brought in during the offseason not just for his receiving ability, but also for his impact in the locker room. Now is the time for Holt to show this team how to get into the postseason.

Jacksonville's young defensive ends: The Jaguars are in the thick of the playoff race, but Quentin Groves and Derrick Harvey have yet to really to contribute. The young bookend pass rushers have combined for just one sack on the year, and if that number does not improve it will be tough to beat the Dolphins and finish out the season strong.

Miami's rookie cornerbacks:Vontae Davis and Sean Smith have played better as of late, and their ability to cover the Jaguars' talented receivers could be the deciding factor in this game. The Dolphins cannot afford to let Garrard hook up with Holt and Mike Sims-Walker for big gains down the field.

Did you know?

Dolphins coach Tony Sparano is 5-0 in the month of December. ... With one more sack, Jason Taylor will pass Derrick Thomas for 11th all-time. ... The Jaguars have won five consecutive games at home. ... If the playoffs started today, the Dolphins would be out and the Jaguars would be in. Get an updated look at the postseason picture.

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