The Tennessee Titans have a tall order this week as they head back to the road to face the Cincinnati Bengals. The Titans are just 1-6 and now face one of the NFL’s elite offenses led by Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase.
First down
Control the pace. The Titans finally got their running game going against Cleveland, as Tony Pollard put up 127 yards and three touchdowns against the Browns. Never mind that it ultimately wasn’t enough to win the game, it was the right formula, and the Titans will need it just to control the clock and keep Burrow, Chase and Tee Higgins off the field.
Second down
Get a pass rush. Joe Burrow is one of the NFL’s best quarterbacks, but he has also taken a lot of hits over the years behind a subpar offensive line. While Burrow is working to get the ball out quicker, the Titans need to generate a pass rush and try to keep him off balance. If he’s allowed time to throw, he will pick the secondary apart with Chase and Higgins.
Third down
Catch a break. The Titans have been better at getting takeaways the past couple of games, getting three against the Colts and two against the Browns. Getting a big play from the defense or even special teams might turn out to be a needed equalizer against Cincy.
Fourth down
Put four quarters together. The Titans, despite their record, are a bit more competitive of late. What they desperately need is to play complementary football for four quarters. The pass game has been sluggish, especially in the first half of games. The Titans need Cam Ward to get in a rhythm earlier so that the pass game can provide some needed balance and can help keep drives alive.