Just a few hours after the Jaguars' 45-42 road win over the Pittsburgh Steelers, thousands of fans gathered at EverBank Field to celebrate their favorite team.
Mayor Lenny Curry announced that the stadium would be open to fans shortly after the Jaguars clinched their first divisional-round playoff win since Jan. 23, 2000.
The Jaguars arrived back in town around 9:30 p.m. and reached the stadium after a 20-minute trek. The crowd erupted in applause and cheers after the entire roster and coaching staff made its way onto the field.
Jaguars head coach Doug Marrone thanked the fans for their support.
"I hope you understand how much we appreciate the support that we've been able to build during the year," Marrone said.
Linebacker Telvin Smith and defensive tackle Malik Jackson greeted the crowd with high-fives. Smith eventually spoke to the fans, as did cornerback Jalen Ramsey, defensive end Calais Campbell and running back Leonard Fournette.
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It was a surreal moment for the fanbase and the team. The Jaguars have won more games this season (12) than in the three previous campaigns combined (11).
"This is pretty fantastic," season-ticket holder Brent Roy said. "We get to exorcise those '96 demons from the Pats. Everybody kept talking about the Titans coming here but now it's about the Patriots."
Jacksonville will travel to Foxborough, Mass. to face the New England Patriots for the AFC Championship next weekend. The Jaguars are one win away from the Super Bowl.
"We ain't done yet, this is just the beginning, baby," Campbell said.
"All of our hard work was for this moment right here. Sixty minutes and we're going to a Super Bowl. One good game and we're going to a Super Bowl. Let's go!"
Follow Mike Kaye on Twitter at @Mike_E_Kaye.
