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MJD sidelined, Gabbert goes up top to get Jags up early

Blaine Gabbert

Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Blaine Gabbert (11) signals against the Oakland Raiders during the first quarter of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Oct. 21, 2012. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

AP

Blaine Gabbert did something he’s never done before, and the Jaguars did something they haven’t done this season.

When Gabbert hit Jags wide receiver Cecil Shorts for a 42-yard touchdown, it did more than give the Jags a 7-3 lead over the Raiders on the road.

It was Gabbert’s first career touchdown pass in the first quarter, and the first time the Jags have scored a touchdown in the first all season.

They need their quarterback, because running back Maurice Jones-Drew is sidelined with a foot injury, and is questionable to return.

Gabbert opened the game 5-of-6 for 85 yards.

For the Raiders, a 59 yard pass to Darrius Heyward-Bey is nearly the extent of their offense to this point.