Here are six key aspects to keep an eye on for the Titans in their upcoming Sunday game against the Seahawks.
The Titans are set to face the Seattle Seahawks at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, and here are six key aspects to monitor in the upcoming contest:
1. Titans QB Situation
The quarterback situation for the Titans remains uncertain as of Friday afternoon. Will Levis, who expressed a desire to play despite an injured ankle, was on the field during the stretch period after missing practice earlier in the week. Levis is listed as QUESTIONABLE on the team’s Injury Report. If he cannot play, veteran Ryan Tannehill is poised to start, returning after being sidelined due to an ankle injury since October 15.
2. Run the Ball:
Regardless of the quarterback, the Titans need to improve their rushing performance following last week’s loss to the Texans. Derrick Henry, with 884 yards on the season, is integral to this effort. The Titans’ rushing average of 104.0 yards per game ranks 18th in the NFL, the lowest since 2015. Facing a Seahawks defense allowing 127.3 rush yards per game, the Titans aim to exploit this vulnerability.
3. Pass Protection:
The Titans’ pass protection has been a concern, allowing 50 sacks this season, including seven on Levis last week. With injuries to key personnel like Daniel Brunskill and Aaron Brewer, maintaining better protection for the quarterback is crucial against a Seahawks defense that has recorded 38 sacks.
4. Defending DK and Others:
Seahawks receiver DK Metcalf poses a significant threat, leading Seattle with 942 yards and seven touchdowns. Tyler Lockett leads in receptions, and rookie Jaxon Smith-Njigba has been gaining momentum. The Titans’ banged-up secondary needs to make plays against the formidable Seahawks offense.
5. Who is Playing?:
The Titans have a substantial number of players on the Injury Report, including key figures like Levis. Eight players, including Sean Murphy-Bunting, Amani Hooker, and Jeffrey Simmons, are ruled out for the contest. The status of other players remains uncertain leading up to Sunday.
6. Importance of Week 16:
Despite being officially eliminated from the playoffs last week, the Titans have motivations to play hard in Week 16. Players will be competing for one another, their own reputations, and careers. Additionally, the Titans have the opportunity to play the spoiler role, affecting the Seahawks’ playoff chances significantly.
The Seahawks are favored by 3.5 points, and although the Titans’ playoff hopes are extinguished, the players remain committed to giving their best on the field. The Seahawks face a 65 percent chance of reaching the playoffs with a win and a 28 percent chance with a loss, as per Next Gen Stats.
