The Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Houston Texans rivalry is one of the most intriguing matchups in the NFL’s AFC South division. Although this rivalry is relatively young compared to others in the league, it has quickly become a fixture in the football world, marked by intense games, competitive spirit, and passionate fanbases.
Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Houston Texans Tickets – 2024 Season
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The Origins of the Rivalry
The Birth of the Houston Texans
The Houston Texans joined the NFL as an expansion team in 2002, bringing professional football back to Houston after the Oilers’ departure to Tennessee in 1997. The Texans quickly became a central part of the AFC South, a division that also includes the Indianapolis Colts and Tennessee Titans. From the very beginning, the Texans were eager to establish their identity and create rivalries within their division.
The Jacksonville Jaguars’ Early Years
The Jacksonville Jaguars were founded in 1995, just a few years before the Texans, and quickly made an impact in the NFL with a series of playoff appearances under head coach Tom Coughlin. The Jaguars were known for their physical style of play and a rapidly growing fanbase, making them a formidable opponent in the AFC.
When the Texans entered the league, the Jaguars were already an established team, and the stage was set for a new rivalry to emerge in the AFC South. The first matchup between these two teams took place on October 27, 2002, marking the beginning of what would become a fiercely competitive rivalry.
Memorable Matchups Between the Jaguars and Texans
2002: The Inaugural Meeting
The first-ever meeting between the Jaguars and Texans took place in Houston on October 27, 2002. The Jaguars, led by quarterback Mark Brunell, were expected to dominate the expansion Texans, who were still finding their footing in the NFL. However, the game turned out to be a closely contested battle, with the Texans pulling off an upset victory with a final score of 21-19.
This game was significant as it marked the beginning of the rivalry and demonstrated that the Texans were not to be underestimated. The Jaguars, on the other hand, were left to regroup after a surprising loss to a new team.
2010: The Hail Mary Game
One of the most unforgettable games in the Jaguars-Texans rivalry took place on November 14, 2010, at TIAA Bank Field in Jacksonville. The game was closely contested, with both teams trading blows throughout the afternoon. As the clock wound down to the final seconds, the Jaguars were tied with the Texans at 24-24.
With just three seconds left on the clock, Jaguars quarterback David Garrard launched a desperation Hail Mary pass from his own 38-yard line. The ball sailed toward the end zone, where it was batted down by a Texans defender. However, Jaguars wide receiver Mike Thomas was in the right place at the right time, catching the deflected ball for a game-winning touchdown as time expired.
The Jaguars’ miraculous 31-24 victory was celebrated as one of the most dramatic finishes in NFL history, and it remains a defining moment in the rivalry with the Texans.
2017: A Dominant Jaguars Defense
The 2017 season was a breakout year for the Jacksonville Jaguars, who boasted one of the best defenses in the NFL. The Jaguars’ defense, nicknamed “Sacksonville,” was a force to be reckoned with, and their matchup against the Texans on September 10, 2017, was a showcase of their dominance.
Playing at NRG Stadium in Houston, the Jaguars’ defense overwhelmed the Texans from the start, recording a franchise-record 10 sacks in a 29-7 victory. Texans rookie quarterback Deshaun Watson made his debut in the game, but even his mobility couldn’t escape the relentless pressure from the Jaguars’ defensive front.
This game was a statement win for the Jaguars and highlighted the strength of their defense, which would carry them to the AFC Championship Game later that season.
2019: The Gardner Minshew Show
The 2019 season brought a new star to the Jacksonville Jaguars in the form of rookie quarterback Gardner Minshew. Minshew, with his distinctive mustache and laid-back personality, quickly became a fan favorite and injected new energy into the team.
On September 15, 2019, the Jaguars faced the Texans in a thrilling contest at NRG Stadium. Minshew, making just his second career start, showed poise beyond his years, leading the Jaguars on a potential game-tying drive in the final minutes. With the score at 13-12 in favor of the Texans, the Jaguars decided to go for a two-point conversion and the win instead of settling for a tie.
Minshew handed the ball off to Leonard Fournette, but the Texans’ defense stopped him just short of the goal line, securing a narrow victory for Houston. Despite the loss, Minshew’s performance solidified his status as a rising star and added another dramatic chapter to the Jaguars-Texans rivalry.
2021: The Urban Meyer Era Begins
The 2021 season opener on September 12 marked the beginning of a new era for the Jaguars, with Urban Meyer making his NFL head coaching debut and Trevor Lawrence, the highly-touted rookie quarterback, starting his first game. The Jaguars traveled to Houston to face the Texans, who were also dealing with significant changes, including a new head coach in David Culley.
The game, however, did not go as the Jaguars had hoped. The Texans, led by veteran quarterback Tyrod Taylor, jumped out to an early lead and never looked back, winning the game 37-21. While Lawrence showed flashes of his potential, throwing for over 300 yards and three touchdowns, he also struggled with turnovers, throwing three interceptions.
The loss was a tough start for the Jaguars under Meyer, but it set the stage for the ongoing development of Lawrence and the future of the Jaguars-Texans rivalry.
Key Players Who Have Shaped the Rivalry
Jacksonville Jaguars
Mark Brunell
Mark Brunell was the Jaguars’ first franchise quarterback and played a pivotal role in the early years of the team. His leadership and playmaking ability were crucial in the Jaguars’ success in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Brunell’s performances against the Texans in the early matchups helped establish the tone for the rivalry, and his contributions to the franchise are still remembered by fans.
Maurice Jones-Drew
Maurice Jones-Drew, or “MJD,” was one of the most dynamic running backs in the NFL during his time with the Jaguars. Known for his powerful running style and ability to make big plays, Jones-Drew was a key figure in many Jaguars victories over the Texans. His performances in the rivalry, particularly in the 2010 Hail Mary game, solidified his status as one of the greatest players in Jaguars history.
Calais Campbell
Calais Campbell, a dominant defensive lineman, was a key figure in the Jaguars’ “Sacksonville” defense during the 2017 season. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses, including in the memorable 2017 game against the Texans, made him one of the most feared defenders in the league. Campbell’s leadership and impact on the Jaguars’ defense were instrumental in the team’s success that year.
Gardner Minshew
Gardner Minshew became an instant fan favorite in Jacksonville with his charismatic personality and unexpected success as a rookie quarterback. His performances against the Texans, including the thrilling 2019 game, endeared him to Jaguars fans and added a new layer of excitement to the rivalry. Minshew’s time with the Jaguars may have been brief, but his impact was significant.
Houston Texans
Andre Johnson
Andre Johnson is one of the greatest wide receivers in NFL history and a cornerstone of the Texans franchise. His ability to make spectacular catches and dominate opposing defenses made him a nightmare for the Jaguars. Johnson’s performances in the rivalry, particularly in the early years, were instrumental in establishing the Texans as a competitive team in the AFC South.
J.J. Watt
J.J. Watt, a future Hall of Fame defensive end, was the heart and soul of the Texans’ defense for many years. Known for his relentless pass rush and ability to make game-changing plays, Watt was a constant thorn in the side of the Jaguars’ offense. His performances in the rivalry, including multiple multi-sack games, made him one of the most feared defenders in the NFL.
Deshaun Watson
Deshaun Watson, the Texans’ star quarterback, played a significant role in the rivalry during his time with the team. Watson’s dual-threat ability as a passer and runner made him a difficult matchup for the Jaguars’ defense. His performances against Jacksonville, including the 2017 and 2019 seasons, showcased his talent and solidified his status as one of the top quarterbacks in the league.
Arian Foster
Arian Foster, a standout running back for the Texans, was known for his vision, patience, and ability to break long runs. Foster’s performances against the Jaguars were often game-changing, as he consistently found ways to exploit their defense. His success in the rivalry made him one of the most beloved players in Texans history.
Coaching Impacts: Guiding the Teams Through the Rivalry
Jacksonville Jaguars
Tom Coughlin
Tom Coughlin, the Jaguars’ first head coach, played a crucial role in establishing the team’s identity and early success. Known for his disciplined approach and emphasis on physical play, Coughlin led the Jaguars to multiple playoff appearances in their early years. His influence on the team’s approach to the rivalry with the Texans was evident in their competitive spirit and determination.
Doug Marrone
Doug Marrone served as the Jaguars’ head coach from 2017 to 2020 and led the team to the AFC Championship Game in 2017. Marrone’s emphasis on a strong running game and tough defense was in line with the team’s traditional identity. Under Marrone’s leadership, the Jaguars’ rivalry with the Texans continued to be a fiercely contested battle, with memorable games and moments.
Urban Meyer
Urban Meyer’s tenure as the Jaguars’ head coach was brief and tumultuous, but his arrival in 2021 brought significant attention to the team. Meyer’s first game as an NFL head coach was against the Texans, and although it resulted in a loss, it marked the beginning of a new era for the Jaguars. Meyer’s approach and the development of Trevor Lawrence will be key factors in the future of the rivalry.
Houston Texans
Gary Kubiak
Gary Kubiak was the head coach of the Texans from 2006 to 2013 and played a significant role in the team’s development. Kubiak’s offensive mind helped elevate the Texans to a competitive level in the AFC South, and his leadership during the early years of the rivalry with the Jaguars was instrumental in shaping the team’s success.
Bill O’Brien
Bill O’Brien served as the Texans’ head coach from 2014 to 2020 and led the team to multiple playoff appearances. O’Brien’s tenure was marked by a strong emphasis on offense, particularly with Deshaun Watson at quarterback. O’Brien’s leadership during the rivalry with the Jaguars saw the Texans win several key matchups and maintain their position as contenders in the division.
Lovie Smith
Lovie Smith was appointed head coach of the Texans in 2022, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a defensive mindset. Smith’s approach to the rivalry with the Jaguars is likely to focus on building a strong defense and developing young talent. His impact on the rivalry will be shaped by how well the Texans can rebuild and compete in the coming years.
Fan Base: Passionate Supporters on Both Sides
Jacksonville Jaguars Fans
The Jacksonville Jaguars have a loyal and passionate fan base known for their unwavering support, even through challenging times. Jaguars fans, often referred to as the “Duval” faithful, are known for their enthusiastic presence at TIAA Bank Field, where they create a lively atmosphere on game days. The rivalry with the Texans is always a highlight of the season for Jaguars fans, who relish the opportunity to see their team compete against a divisional rival.
- Address: TIAA Bank Field, 1 TIAA Bank Field Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32202
- Website: tiaabankfield.com
Houston Texans Fans
The Houston Texans boast one of the most dedicated fan bases in the NFL, known for their passionate support of the team at NRG Stadium. Texans fans, who fill the stadium with a sea of battle red and deep steel blue, are vocal and energetic, creating an intimidating environment for visiting teams. The rivalry with the Jaguars is a key fixture on the Texans’ schedule, and fans eagerly anticipate each matchup.
- Address: NRG Stadium, 8825 Kirby Dr, Houston, TX 77054
- Website: nrgstadium.com
The Stadiums: Home-Field Advantage
TIAA Bank Field – Jacksonville, FL
TIAA Bank Field, home to the Jacksonville Jaguars, is known for its unique features, including the famous swimming pools in the north end zone. Located in downtown Jacksonville, the stadium offers a vibrant atmosphere on game days, with fans filling the stands to support their team. The stadium’s design and passionate fan base provide a significant home-field advantage for the Jaguars.
NRG Stadium – Houston, TX
NRG Stadium, the home of the Houston Texans, is a state-of-the-art facility known for its retractable roof and modern amenities. Located in the heart of Houston, the stadium provides an electric atmosphere on game days, with Texans fans creating a loud and intimidating environment for opposing teams. The rivalry games against the Jaguars are always among the most anticipated matchups of the season at NRG Stadium.
Looking Ahead: The Future of the Rivalry
Emerging Stars and New Challenges
As both the Jacksonville Jaguars and Houston Texans look to the future, the rivalry is poised for continued intensity and excitement. Both teams are in the process of rebuilding and developing young talent, with players like Trevor Lawrence for the Jaguars and emerging stars for the Texans leading the way. The future matchups between these two teams will be shaped by the growth and development of these players, adding new chapters to the rivalry.
The Impact of Changing Dynamics
The NFL is constantly evolving, with new coaching strategies, player movements, and shifting dynamics influencing the landscape of the league. As the Jaguars and Texans navigate these changes, their rivalry will continue to adapt and grow. Each new season brings fresh challenges and opportunities, ensuring that the rivalry remains dynamic and compelling for fans.
The Promise of Future Glory
For both the Jaguars and Texans, the ultimate goal is to build competitive teams capable of contending for Super Bowls. The rivalry between these two teams, while still relatively young, will play a crucial role in determining which franchise can reach the pinnacle of success first. As both teams continue to build and develop, their matchups will be pivotal in shaping the future of the AFC South and the NFL as a whole.
In Short
The Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Houston Texans rivalry may not have the long history of some other NFL matchups, but it has quickly become one of the most intriguing and competitive rivalries in the league. From dramatic finishes to standout performances by star players, this rivalry has provided fans with countless memorable moments.
As the rivalry continues to evolve, fans can look forward to more thrilling matchups between these two AFC South foes. Whether you’re a die-hard Jaguars fan, a loyal Texans supporter, or simply a football enthusiast, the games between Jacksonville and Houston are always must-watch events.
For fans of both teams, the rivalry represents more than just a series of games—it’s a chance to showcase their team’s strengths, claim divisional bragging rights, and build toward future success. As the NFL moves forward, the Jaguars vs. Texans rivalry will remain a key fixture in the league, providing fans with unforgettable moments and the thrill of competition for years to come.
