Few gave the Jacksonville Jaguars a chance to go to Pittsburgh and beat the Steelers for the second time in one season, and that apparently motivated the team.
The Jaguars won 45-42 in a game that really wasn’t as close as it looked, with the defense forcing two key turnovers. One of them was Smith’s scoop and score in the second quarter. After the game, Smith made clear that the doubters — and the chatter from the Pittsburgh side — was a huge motivator for them.
Talked to #Jaguars LB Telvin Smith on the field. Said the #Steelers talked a lot this week. All the doubt fueling this run. “Keep it coming!” More on @nflnetwork
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) January 14, 2018
The Steelers definitely gave Jacksonville some bulletin board material, as Le’Veon Bell was already looking ahead to the AFC Championship even before kickoff, and Smith’s teammates already had a rather noisy response to similar comments from Mike Mitchell. Smith’s wish will likely be granted — the New England Patriots will likely be firm favorites at home next week.
