Abdullah: Game-Winning Kick Return Was 'Euphoric'

The Jacksonville Jaguars escaped London with a victory on Sunday, knocking off the Philadelphia Eagles 19-17 in a penalty-filled, sloppy affair.

But, ultimately, the Jaguars pulled it off, with kicker Cam Little and veteran running back Ameer Abdullah making the biggest play of the game.

After Eagles kicker Jake Elliott made a go-ahead 48-yard field goal with just eight seconds to play, chances of a comeback seemed bleak.

But, Abdullah was able to find daylight on the opposing kickoff, returning it for 53 yards and setting up Little for a walk-off make.

Following the game, Abdullah credited his special teams staff for the playcall, while describing the moment.

"We had an 'alley return' called," Abdullah explained. "It was euphoric and like a dream. I could (see the clock). Selfishly, I wanted to go score and be the big hero but knowing we had Cam, I thought, 'Just get close.'"

Abdullah did exactly what he needed to do, going down with enough time for Little to step up and bang the 57-yarder through the uprights.

Despite Abdullah not seeing much action as one of Jacksonville's primary ball carriers, he has remained an effective kick returner and a respected member of the team.

He talked about staying ready and trusting his coaching staff following the big return.

"It starts with, you know, we make our practice habits a game reality," Abdullah said.

The former second-round pick in the 2015 draft even received multiple votes to be a captain this offseason, despite arriving with the team later in the Spring.

Following the game, head coach Liam Coen gave his veteran tailback major praise.

"That’s that dude man,” Coen said. “That guy is one of the first in building every single day.” 

Through the opening five weeks, Abdullah has been effective with his limited touches, recording ten carries for 45 yards.

But, his main value has been provided in the return game, as Abdullah has filled in as the Jaguars' primary kick returner.

Thus far, it has paid dividends, with the former Nebraska standout averaging over 29 yards per return.

As the Jaguars enter their first interdivisional matchup of the season against the Houston Texans, having all three facets of the game clicking at a high level is on par with some of the praises and expectations the team is beginning to generate.

Jacksonville is back in action Sunday morning against the Texans from London.