Did Trevor Lawrence Play Sick? A Look at the Jaguars QB’s ‘Flu Game’
Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence has had a bit of a rollercoaster season, but his performance against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 9 was something else entirely. It wasn’t just another game; it was a gritty, guts-and-glory display that left fans and coaches impressed, and probably a little concerned for his general well-being. Turns out, the star QB was apparently channeling his inner Michael Jordan, playing through a severe illness that had him feeling, let’s just say, less than a hundred percent.
The ‘Flu Game’ Unveiled on Instagram
The first hint that something was amiss didn’t come from the official team injury report, but from Lawrence’s wife, Marissa. In a classic “proud partner” move, she took to Instagram to pull back the curtain on just how rough a night her husband had before taking the field.
She revealed that both she and Trevor were “up alllllll night so sick,” adding she had been “down baddd today.” Marissa expressed pure astonishment at his ability to even show up, let alone play an entire NFL game. “I have no clue how he went and played a game,” she wrote. “It’s the small things people don’t know or always see but I have to brag on him because this is just crazy!!!”
You have to respect the level of dedication. While most of us would be curled up in bed, mainlining ginger ale and binge-watching a show we’ve already seen three times, Lawrence was out there dodging 300-pound linemen. Marissa capped it off by calling him “so strong and such a good leader,” making it clear she’s firmly in his corner. And honestly, who wouldn’t be after a performance like that?
What Did the Coaches and Lawrence Say?
It wasn’t just a spouse’s proud exaggeration. Jaguars‘ head coach Liam Coen backed up Marissa’s account, painting a vivid—and slightly gross—picture of Lawrence’s condition. Coen confirmed the QB was “throwing up all night and all morning,” describing him as “pale as a ghost throughout the whole game.” Yikes.
Despite the obvious physical distress, Lawrence managed to lead his team to a nail-biting 30-29 victory. His stats weren’t exactly record-breaking—220 yards on 23 completions with an interception and no passing touchdowns. But stats don’t tell the whole story. Lawrence took matters into his own hands (and feet), rushing for two crucial touchdowns that made all the difference. When the game was on the line, he dug deep.
After the game, Lawrence himself gave a classic, understated athlete’s response. When asked how he felt, he admitted, “I’ve felt better, for sure.” You don’t say? He added, “I feel a little bit better after getting a win, though… Definitely going to feel a little bit better on this plane ride back.” Nothing cures the flu quite like a comeback win, apparently.
From College Legend to NFL Grinder
This kind of toughness is what separates the good from the great. Before being the first overall pick, Trevor Lawrence was a certified legend at Clemson, leading the Tigers to two national championship games and securing a win in 2018. He was the golden boy with the golden arm, expected to instantly transform the Jaguars’ fortunes.
While the pro journey has had its bumps, moments like the “flu game” demonstrate the kind of grit and leadership that doesn’t always show up in the box score. It’s one thing to dominate when you’re feeling your best; it’s another thing entirely to will your team to victory when you can barely keep your breakfast down.
A Decade of Growth, On and Off the Field
Adding a sweet, human touch to the saga, Marissa also shared a throwback photo of the couple from their teenage years, noting that their 10-year anniversary was approaching. “I’m so grateful that we’ve got to grow up together. I love our love,” she wrote. From high school sweethearts to a power couple navigating the intense pressures of the NFL, it’s a reminder of the life happening behind the helmet and headlines.
So, while Trevor Lawrence continues to navigate the highs and lows of being an NFL quarterback, his performance against the Raiders will likely be remembered as a defining moment—a testament to his toughness and a story that adds another layer to his growing legacy.
