The Tennessee Titans had a tough one at home last week versus the Buffalo Bills, losing 14-7. The loss was disappointing after the solid win against the Falcons and now the Titans look to establish momentum against the Broncos in Denver. The division hasn’t run away from the Titans, but with the Indianapolis Colts winning in Kansas City last weekend and the Houston Texans starting to find their rhythm, this is a big game for the Titans to keep pace in the division. With the importance of this game, the Titans need to make sure and have everything in order and these six things could help them leave Denver with a win.
Offense
1) Delanie is on the team ya know
The last two weeks Delanie Walker has not been involved in the offense. He has only had two targets in two games, coming away with only two receptions. The Titans may want to see more from Corey Davis and AJ Brown, but they need their veteran tight end to be involved early and often. The more he is involved in the passing game, the better the Titans will be when they have to put the ball in the air. He is due for a breakout game.
2) Jump on the Denver defense early
The Titans did not start well last week and that sad play offensively extended over the entire game against a tough Bills defense. The good thing for the Titans is they don’t have to see the Bills defense again this week. The Denver Broncos defense isn’t the same as the Bills, in fact, they aren’t even on the same level. The Titans have to come out early and hit them hard with some big plays. If they can do that, it will be a hit to an already down Denver defense.
3) Gut check for Mariota and the offensive line
Marcus Mariota has taken some blame for the issues with him getting sacked so much and so has the Titans offensive line. While fans are busy blaming one or the other, both should share the blame. And in this game, both of them need to answer the challenge ahead of them. Are both going to step up and play to their capability or will they go through the motions? For the Titans to win, they need both of them to show up and show out.
Defense
1) Stuff the run game
The Broncos are not exactly setting the world on fire offensively, but if you give any offense confidence, they can beat you. The one part of Denver’s offense that can cause issues is the running game. If Philip Lindsay and Royce Freeman get going, then the rest of the offense opens up. The Titans must limit them and put the game in the hands of veteran, Joe Flacco, who has had some moments of brilliance and some moments that make you scratch your head. Putting Flacco in obvious passing downs is advantage Tennessee.
2) Be aware of Courtland Sutton
The talented youngster is breaking out, tallying 401 yards so far this season. With his unique combination of size and speed, he can create issues. The Titans need to make it tough on him. Putting hands on him and giving him different looks along with Joe Flacco will give him more things to think about and if he is thinking, he isn’t playing as fast as he could.
3) Create some pressure
The Titans do not have a pass-rusher the Broncos are worried about on a consistent basis. While that could hinder the Titans, what can help them is their defensive coordinator, Dean Pees. The veteran defensive coordinator can flat-out coach and what the Titans need from him in this game is for him to scheme up some mismatches. Defensive lineman stunts, linebacker stunts and other things can be used to keep this offense guessing and also to keep Flacco’s eyes off the field.
This one could be good or bad for the Titans depending on how they come out and play. These six points will help but only if Tennessee executes.
