AFC South Division Championship 2007
An 11-win resurgence that returned the Jaguars to the postseason under Del Rio.
The 2007 Jacksonville Jaguars season stands as a pivotal chapter in the franchise's modern history under head coach Jack Del Rio. While often associated with their playoff resurgence, it is crucial to note that the team secured a Wild Card berth rather than the AFC South Division Championship, which was claimed by the Indianapolis Colts. This campaign marked the club's return to postseason contention following a brief hiatus.
- Season Record
- 11-5
- Head Coach
- Jack Del Rio
- Playoff Status
- AFC Wild Card Berth
- Division Standing
- 2nd in AFC South (Behind Colts)
- Key Quarterback
- David Garrard
- Key Running Back
- Maurice Jones-Drew
Lore & Background
Despite finishing second in the division behind Peyton Manning's Colts, the Jaguars' 11-5 record was a testament to their durability. The team navigated a tough schedule with grit, relying on veteran leadership from players like Fred Taylor and defensive anchors such as Rashean Mathis. This era is remembered by fans not for a division trophy, but for laying the groundwork of toughness that would eventually lead to future playoff success.
In Their Own Story
The air in TIAA Bank Field was thick with anticipation as the fourth quarter wound down against a division rival. David Garrard wiped sweat from his brow, calling out adjustments while Maurice Jones-Drew lined up at the line of scrimmage. The crowd roared as the running back found a seam, gaining critical yards that kept the drive alive. It wasn't about winning the division title that week; it was about proving they belonged among the league's elite.
Reader's Guide
The 2007 season is best understood through its actual milestones rather than assumed division titles. The team achieved an 11-5 regular-season record, securing their first playoff berth since the 2005 season. Key individual accolades included Maurice Jones-Drew's emergence as a Pro Bowl-caliber running back and David Garrard's steady quarterback play which kept the offense moving efficiently against top-tier defenses. While the AFC South Division Championship was not awarded to Jacksonville in this year (won by Indianapolis), the team's Wild Card appearance remains a significant record of stability during the Del Rio tenure.
Did You Know?
- Jack DelRio became the first Jaguars coach to lead the team to a winning record in three consecutive seasons starting with 2005.
- Maurice Jones-Drew rushed for over 1,000 yards in his rookie season (2006) and continued that momentum into 2007.
- The Jaguars' defense was ranked highly in sacks during the 2007 campaign, led by Fred Taylor's supporting cast.