With starting quarterback Gardner Minshew II dealing with a significant thumb injury, Jacksonville Jaguars rookie Jake Luton got to take the field for his first start Sunday against the Houston Texans. While his performance was far from perfect, he had some good moments finishing the day with a 68.4% completion rate (26-of-38) for 304 yards, a touchdown, and a pick. He was also able to come away with a rushing touchdown for 13 yards, which put the Jags in position to tie it up with a 2-point conversion.
As a result of his ability to contribute in a variety of ways, Luton was able to become the first player since 1950 to register 300-plus passing yards, complete multiple passes for over 25 yards, and a rushing touchdown in his first start.
JAX QB Jake Luton is the 1st player since at least 1950 to record 300+ pass yards, 25+ completions & 1+ rush TD in his 1st career start#Jaguars
— NFL Research (@NFLResearch) November 8, 2020
Not bad for a sixth-rounder, right?
While Luton has a few passes that should’ve been picked and was up against a Texans defense that was ranked No. 30 coming into the game, this achievement is one fans shouldn’t overlook. The reason for that is because Luton had never been active up until Sunday and he also hadn’t called a play in the huddle since training camp, according to offensive coordinator Jay Gruden.
With such an interesting performance under his belt and Minshew unlikely to be available, Doug Marrone and the Jags are projecting Luton to start Week 10 against the Green Bay Packers. While a win in that game seems unlikely, it will be interesting to see Luton further prove himself because he could further make a case to remain the Jags’ QB1 for the rest of the season.
Jaguars HC Doug Marrone says QB Jake Luton likely will start again Sunday ….
QB Gardner Minshew (thumb) again unlikely to be available Sunday…
— John Oehser (@JohnOehser) November 9, 2020
