ATLANTA -- The Jacksonville Jaguars took a 7-0 lead into halftime, but three interceptions by the Falcons' defense kept that deficit from growing even larger in the first half of the final preseason game.
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The Jaguars' offense had little trouble moving the ball against the Falcons, picking up 15 first downs and gaining 278 total yards during the first two quarters, but they could only muster points on one of their five drives.
Fifth-year cornerback Blidi Wreh-Wilson came up with the first interception of the game, tipping the ball to himself while defending a jump ball thrown to Jacksonville receiver Dede Westbrook. The interception occured after the Jaguars had marched 62 yards down to the 4-yard line on their second offensive possession.
Two possessions later, linebacker Jermaine Grace made a diving grab along the sideline to force Atlanta's second turnover of the evening. The interception again came inside of Falcons' territory, as the Jaguars offense had gained 56 yards and moved the ball to the 28-yard line before Grace made a big play.
Atlanta's third interception of the first half came with just 22 seconds left on the clock, and the Jaguars knocking on the door once again. Defensive lineman Chris Odom showed good awareness to get his hand up and deflect the ball to safety Sharrod Neasman, who secured the pick.
Coach Dan Quinn has always stressed the importance he places on winning the turnover battle. While he likely wasn't pleased that his defense surrendered nearly 300 yards and committed three penalties, Quinn must have liked how the Falcons were able to come away with interceptions in crucial moments.
