The Tennessee Titans held the line at home last week, earning their 2nd win of the season by beating the Indianapolis Colts 24-17. This key win was their first against a divisional opponent and now they hit the road for a non-conference matchup against the Washington Commanders.
Considerations Ahead of the Game
The Commanders (1-3) have suffered tough divisional losses the last two weeks, scoring a total of 18 points against the Eagles and Cowboys. Defensively, Washington has been pretty solid against the run. Per Pro Football Reference, they rank 16th in rushing yards allowed. That’s not great but they are also the 2nd best team with the fewest first downs allowed by the run with just 16. The Chicago Bears, by comparison, have allowed a league-leading 44 rushing first downs. Additionally, the Washington Commanders are among 5 teams who have only allowed 1 rushing touchdown so far this season. The Titans happen to be on that list as well.
The Titans game plan will undoubtedly be centered around RB Derrick Henry. After a quiet week one, Henry has bounced back nicely. He now has a rushing touchdown in 3 straight games. Last week against the Colts, Henry’s yards-per-attempt jumped up to the highest of the season at 5.18 (PFR).
Outlook
The passing game could potentially be exciting for both teams. The Titans and Commanders are among the 3 teams tied for last place with receiving touchdowns allowed. They have all given up 10. The Kansas City Chiefs are the team 3rd on that list. In terms of passing yardage allowed, both the Titans and Commanders rank in the lower tier of NFL defenses.
The Titans should try and get WR Robert Woods involved early and often against the Commanders. Last week, Woods caught his first touchdown of the season on a play action pass from Tannehill. He hasn’t been used that much so far, averaging only 3.25 receptions per game, but this matchup favors the veteran wide receiver. Unfortunately, the Titans will be without rookie WR Treylon Burks. According to Titans reporter, Jim Wyatt, Burks did not practice Wednesday with the toe injury he suffered last Sunday and looks to be a scratch for Sunday.
Other notable Wednesday DNP’s: OLB Ola Adeniyi, LB Zach Cunningham, OLB Bud Dupree, LB Joe Jones.
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