By any definition, this wasn’t a pretty win — but it was a championship-caliber one.
The Jacksonville Jaguars went into Indianapolis and walked out with a 23–17 victory over the Indianapolis Colts, proving once again that this team can win in more than one way. In December football, style points don’t matter. Results do — and the Jaguars delivered. The Jaguars dug themselves an early hole, trailing 10–0 as the Colts leaned on ball control and capitalized on early Jacksonville miscues. Drives stalled. Opportunities were missed. It was the kind of start that has derailed Jaguars teams in years past.
This version of Jacksonville? Different mindset. Instead of panicking, the Jaguars settled in, adjusted, and began to chip away — possession by possession. This wasn’t a highlight-reel passing performance for Trevor Lawrence, but it may have been one of his most important games of the season.
Lawrence threw for solid yardage, but his biggest impact came with his legs. Two rushing touchdowns — both in critical moments — showcased a quarterback willing to put his body on the line when the offense needed answers.
That’s growth.
That’s leadership.
That’s December football.
When Jacksonville needed toughness, their quarterback provided it.
With injuries forcing others into larger roles, Parker Washington stepped up in a big way. His ability to find space, move the chains, and give Lawrence a reliable target kept Jacksonville’s offense afloat when things weren’t clicking early. Washington’s emergence adds another layer to this offense — one that could pay dividends when defensive attention shifts elsewhere. The Jaguars’ defense wasn’t flawless, but it was timely. They limited explosive plays, tightened up in the red zone, and forced Indianapolis to settle for field goals instead of touchdowns. When the Colts had chances to swing momentum back in their favor, Jacksonville responded with stops — the kind that don’t always show up in box scores but decide games. This unit understands situational football, and it showed.
In a tight, physical game, special teams often make the difference — and Cam Little was money. His go-ahead field goal in the fourth quarter flipped momentum permanently, and his late long kick sealed the win. In games like this, having a kicker you trust is invaluable.
Jacksonville has one.
This wasn’t a blowout.
It wasn’t flashy.
It was earned.
Winning on the road.
Winning in division play.
Winning when things don’t go according to plan.
Those are the games that separate contenders from pretenders.
The Jaguars are showing they can adapt, endure adversity, and close — all traits of a team built for January.
And as the calendar flips closer to the postseason, Jacksonville continues to prove one thing:
They’re not just winning games — they’re growing up.