The Titans are the least-competitive team in the NFL, losing by an average of 29-14. With the Los Angeles Chargers coming to town, the Titans could be in for another long day at Nissan Stadium, where they have not won in nearly a calendar year.
First down
Play with a lead. The Titans have not had many leads this season, but they did have one briefly two weeks ago against New England. It would be nice if they could somehow score first, play some adequate defense and then try to use the running game to shorten the game and keep the Chargers offense on the sideline. That’s probably wishful thinking, but it has to be an option if the Titans are to have a chance.
Second down
Keep using Dike. Chimere Dike has emerged as one of the Titans’ best options on offense since Calvin Ridley went out with a hamstring injury. No matter if Ridley is able to go or not, the Titans need to keep finding ways to get Dike involved in the offense, as he has had 163 yards receiving on 11 catches in the past two games.
Third down
Protect the football. Cam Ward had his 11th turnover of the year Sunday when he threw a fourth quarter interception against the Colts. The rookie didn’t lose any fumbles, which had been a major issue, but he has to protect the football better for a team that has no margin for error with costly mistakes.
Fourth down
Take the ball away. The Titans defense has shown a little bit of an improved pass rush in recent weeks, but it has not translated into many takeaways. The Titans did not force a turnover for the second straight game. A fumble recovery or an interception might give the team a badly needed spark.
Chargers (5-3) at Titans (1-7)
Sun., Nov. 2 | 1 p.m.
Nissan Stadium, Nashville
TV: CBS Radio: WGOW 102.3 FM