The Giants will have many faces on their defense that have not experienced the likes of Derrick “King” Henry, and the Titan’s fifth-ranked rushing attack. It was likely as low as 5th because he only gained 937 yards in the eight games he played before an injury ended his season. A year removed from a 2000-yard season, Henry will be looking to make a statement.
Changes
There have been two new additions to the Titan offensive line after the departure of solid run blockers Pro Bowler Rodger Saffold and tackle David Quessenberry, both now starting for the Buffalo Bills. Replacing Saffold is Aaron Brewer, a third-year swing guard who is athletic but on the lighter side. He will be starting for the first time as will right tackle and rookie 3rd round pick Nicholas Petit-Frere.
The Titans like to run a zone-heavy scheme outside and off tackle. They will likely be avoiding the Giant’s strength inside and will target the Giant’s inexperienced edges. The Giant’s edge player’s ability to set the edge is still somewhat of an unknown. Kayvon Thibodaux and Azeez Ojulari are known for their pass rush. Ximenes has looked to have improved his run defense this Summer but has previously been a liability.
The Titans do have a fullback on their roster to utilize and one of the best run blocking receivers in newly signed Robert Woods. The Giant’s second and third levels will see waves of blockers before they even get a shot at Henry’s 247 pound frame.
Hopefully Dexter Lawrence and Lenard Williams can at least eat up blockers preventing them from getting to the second level for 235 pound Tae Crowder and journey man back up Austin Calitro will have a hard time with the King even without line men getting to them.
We will get to see exactly how well the Giant’s secondary is with avoiding blocks and their tackling. Despite Tennessee being a primarily running team defensive coordinator Wink Martindale may still continue with blitzes from the secondary to hopefully disrupt Henry before he gets going. With any luck all the starting cornerbacks remain in the game for if 175 pound Cor’dale Flott has to take on Henry, his first game may be his last.