Parker Washington turned one wild final minute into a Jaguars celebration last week. His 53-yard kickoff return set up Cam Little’s winning 57-yard field goal against Philadelphia, lifting Jacksonville to 4-1. Now the Jaguars cross the Atlantic for a Week 6 AFC South showdown with the 1-4 Houston Texans at Wembley Stadium. Jacksonville wants to prove last season’s 13-win breakout was no fluke, while Houston needs a big road win to restart its climb.

The Jaguars have made close games their stage. They have won their last three contests, including tight victories over Cincinnati and Philadelphia, and their defense allows only 14 points per game. That means opponents rarely get easy scoring chances. Jacksonville also has a plus-five edge in takeaways, meaning it has grabbed the ball from opponents more often than it has given it away. Those extra possessions can change a close game in a hurry.

Quarterback Trevor Lawrence leads the attack with 10 touchdown passes in five games. He can push the ball downfield, but he also uses quick throws to keep drives moving. Washington showed against Philadelphia that he can turn a short catch or a return into a huge burst of field position. Tight end Brenton Strange gives Lawrence a sturdy target over the middle, while Brian Thomas Jr. remains a speedy deep-ball threat who could break loose at any time.

Jacksonville’s clearest path is running back Bhayshul Tuten. The second-year runner has 349 rushing yards and brings sharp cuts and speed to an offense that needs balance. If Tuten gets the Jaguars moving on the ground, Houston’s defenders must step closer to the line. That could open space for Lawrence to throw.

But the Texans have a defense built to spoil that plan. Last season, Houston allowed the fewest yards in the NFL, and its tough front still brings pressure led by edge rushers Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter. Cornerbacks Derek Stingley Jr. and Kamari Lassiter make throws outside difficult. The Texans must be ready even though several defenders are injured, including safety Jalen Pitre, who is doubtful.

Houston’s offense has shown it can strike through the air. C.J. Stroud has thrown for 1,402 yards, more than any player in this matchup, and Nico Collins has three touchdown catches in only three games. At 6-foot-4, Collins can use his size to win catches downfield, giving Stroud a powerful target when the Texans need a spark. Still, Houston averages only 79 rushing yards per game. David Montgomery is doubtful with a groin injury, so the Texans may need Stroud and Collins to carry even more of the load.

That is a risky task against Jacksonville’s opportunistic defense. The Jaguars will also be without tackle Anton Harrison, which gives Houston’s pass rush a chance to disrupt Lawrence. Yet Jacksonville has been steadier in tight moments, and its offense has more balance with Tuten available. At Wembley, expect Lawrence’s late-game calm and the Jaguars’ defense to lead the way. Prediction: Jaguars win.

Trevor Lawrence and the Jaguars Bring a Late-Game Spark to Wembley