JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Florida National News) – The Jacksonville Jaguars (2-10) lost to the Houston Texans (8-5) 23-20, eliminating the Jags from the playoffs. Today’s game marked the Jaguars’ return to the field after a week 12 bye. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence started the game after missing the last two with an injury to his non-throwing shoulder, but left the game late in the second quarter after suffering a concussion in a heated moment between the two AFC South rivals.

QB Trevor Lawrence (Photo credit: Mike Brodsky, Florida National News)

The first quarter set the tone for today’s defensive battle, with no scoring by either team. Texans’ K Ka’imi Fairbairn was the first to put points on the scoreboard with a 53 yard field goal early in the second quarter. Fairbairn later added a 30 yard field goal to put the Texans ahead 6-0. A few plays later, QB Trevor Lawrence had to be taken off the field in a cart, after a rough helmet-to-helmet hit by Texans’ LB Azeez Al-Shaair. Al-Shaair and Jaguars’ CB Jarrian Jones were both ejected after the ensuing brawl between the teams. Lawrence was ruled out for the remainder of the game with a concussion, so QB Mac Jones entered the game to take his place. On that same drive, K Cam Little kicked a 33 yard field goal, to leave the Jaguars trailing 6-3 at halftime.

QB Mac Jones (Photo credit: Mike Brodsky, Florida National News)

Little added a 30 yard field goal early in the third quarter, to tie the game at 6-6, extending his streak to 15 consecutive field goals made, the longest by a rookie in Jaguars’ franchise history. The Texans’ next drive ended with a 7 yard touchdown run by RB Joe Mixon and extra point by Fairbairn, putting Houston up 13-6. Fairbairn kicked a 28 yard field goal late in the third quarter, extending their lead to 16-6.

Early in the fourth quarter, Little missed a 55 yard field goal attempt, ending his franchise rookie streak at 15 consecutive field goals made. The Texans scored on a 22 yard pass by QB C.J. Stroud to TE Dalton Schultz, followed by Fairbairn’s XP, extending their lead to 23-6. Jaguars TE Evan Engram joined Jeremy Shockey and George Kittle as the only three tight ends in NFL history to record at least 40 receptions in each of their first eight seasons. Soon after, the Jaguars added a 22 yard touchdown pass by Jones to WR Parker Washington. A failed two point conversion attempt left the Jags down 23-12. Jones later connected with WR Brian Thomas Jr. for a 6 yard touchdown pass, tying Thomas for first place in receiving touchdowns by a rookie in franchise history (six). A two point conversion narrowed the deficit to 23-20. But the Texans were able to run out the clock to seal their victory, and knock the Jags out of the postseason.

During today’s game, players, coaches, and staff wore customized cleats and sneakers in support of various charitable organizations that they support, as part of the NFL’s “My Clause My Cleats” campaign. In all, more than fifty charitable causes were represented, including youth health and wellness, cancer research, and social justice.

Mac Jones finished with 235 yards and two TDs. Travis Etienne Jr. led the Jaguars’ rushing with 46 yards. Parker Washington was the leading receiver with 103 yards and 1 TD. Today’s attendance was 62,588.

The Jaguars head to Tennessee to face their AFC South rival Titans on Sunday, 12/8. Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. The Jaguars’ next home game will be against the New York Jets on Sunday, 12/15 at 1:00 p.m. Be sure to follow www.FloridaSportsChannel.com and www.FloridaNationalNews.comfor more.

NEW YORK CITY, NY (FNN SPORTS) – The NFL has unveiled an impressive pregame entertainment lineup for Super Bowl LIX, paying homage to the vibrant music scene of New Orleans. Scheduled for Sunday, February 9, 2025, at Caesars Superdome and airing live on FOX, the pregame performances will spotlight the immense talent of Louisiana natives: Jon Batiste, Trombone Shorty, Lauren Daigle, and Ledisi.

“We’re honored to work with this year’s pregame lineup to celebrate the rich musical legacy of New Orleans and the entire state,” said Seth Dudowsky, head of music at the NFL. “The Super Bowl is a rare moment to unite fans around the world, and this year’s performers will bring the energy, soul, and vibrant sounds of the region to a global stage, as we kickoff Super Bowl LIX with a celebration to remember.”

A Lineup Rooted in Louisiana’s Rich Musical Heritage

• Jon Batiste will perform the national anthem. A five-time Grammy Award winner and Academy Award-winning artist, Batiste is celebrated for his dynamic artistry and deep ties to New Orleans. His latest album, Beethoven Blues, debuted at #1 on the Classical charts, and his film score work has earned critical acclaim.
• Trombone Shorty will deliver a stirring rendition of “America the Beautiful” alongside Grammy Award-winning vocalist Lauren Daigle. Trombone Shorty, born Troy Andrews, is a New Orleans legend known for his genre-blending sound and electrifying performances. Daigle, a chart-topping Louisiana native, continues to captivate audiences with her powerful voice and multi-platinum hits like “You Say.”
• Ledisi will perform “Lift Every Voice and Sing”, adding her soulful touch to the historic anthem. With a Grammy win and 15 nominations under her belt, Ledisi’s commanding stage presence and vocal prowess have made her a global icon.

ASL Performances Add Inclusive Touch

The NFL is committed to inclusivity, featuring American Sign Language (ASL) performances for the national anthem, “America the Beautiful,” and “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” ASL artists include Stephanie Nogueras, Otis Jones IV, and Matt Maxey, ensuring all fans can fully experience the pregame and halftime shows.

Cultural Impact

Super Bowl LIX pregame entertainment celebrates Louisiana’s cultural legacy, showcasing its artists on one of the world’s largest stages. “This to me is one of the most special days of the year through the Magic,” said Dudowsky. The performances promise to highlight not only New Orleans’ musical heritage but also its resilience and ability to bring people together through art.

This year’s Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show, headlined by Kendrick Lamar, will further amplify the night’s dynamic energy.

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN SPORTS) – Continuing a beloved 32-year tradition, the Orlando Magic once again demonstrated their unwavering commitment to the Central Florida community by serving a special Thanksgiving breakfast at the Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida. Head Coach Jamahl Mosley, Magic executives, the DeVos family, and team staff came together to serve nearly 500 residents of the Coalition and over 100 unsheltered individuals from the community.

“It’s everything,” Mosley emphasized. “Basketball is important, but as human beings, taking care of others is our ultimate responsibility. Helping those in need reminds them that they are not alone and have support to find their way.”

Long-Standing Partnership

The Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida is the largest provider of homeless services in the region, assisting individuals and families with housing, meals, and essential resources. Last year, the organization served over 230,000 meals and helped more than 2,400 individuals secure permanent housing.

For three decades, the Magic have partnered with the Coalition to ensure those struggling with homelessness can celebrate Thanksgiving with dignity and joy. This year’s breakfast was made possible through Mosley’s generosity.

A Family Tradition

Team President of Basketball Operations Jeff Weltman described the event’s significance, noting the deep connection between the Magic and the local community.

“This is truly our community,” Weltman stated. “We’re just a stone’s throw from our office, and being here on Thanksgiving to give back is one of the most special moments of the year.”

The DeVos family, whose philanthropy has become synonymous with Central Florida, also played a prominent role in this year’s event. Magic Vice President of Shareholder Engagement Ryan DeVos highlighted the holiday’s spirit of giving.

“It’s about remembering the reason for the holiday – giving back and supporting the community that supports us,” DeVos said.

Coalition CEO Allison Krall praised the Magic’s dedication, saying:

“It’s amazing to see their commitment. They spend their Thanksgiving morning with us, often bringing their families, and it means everything to our guests.”

Additional Community Efforts

The Thanksgiving breakfast was one of many charitable initiatives by the Magic this week.

• Tuesday: The Wagner brothers, Moe and Franz, joined Coach Mosley and assistant coaches to distribute turkey meals to 50 families through the Foundation for Foster Children in Winter Park.
• Tuesday Night: Wendell Carter Jr., Cole Anthony, and their foundations teamed up with Florida Blue to distribute meals at the Rosemont Neighborhood Center.
• Wednesday: Jonathan Isaac partnered with Project Life to serve meals at J.U.M.P Ministries Global Church.

These efforts exemplify the Magic’s mission to uplift and support Central Florida year-round.

Takeaways:

• The Orlando Magic’s Thanksgiving Breakfast tradition reflects their deep-rooted commitment to the community.
• Over 600 individuals were served this year, including Coalition residents and unsheltered community members.
• The Magic’s ongoing initiatives, from meal distributions to family support, embody their dedication to improving lives off the court.