The Titans were as healthy as they had been all season going into Sunday’s loss to Indianapolis. That certainly changed, and now some of their key players on offense (Derrick Henry), defense (Jeffery Simmons) and special teams (Ryan Stonehouse) are all banged up as they get ready for a nearly impossible task of trying to slow down the Miami Dolphins. Miami is 8-0 against teams with losing records this season, and the Titans are winless on the road. Yikes.
First down
Run the ball. The Titans had the right idea against the Colts, with Derrick Henry running well and Tyjae Spears looking good after Henry went down. The Titans have to run successfully to control the clock and keep the explosive Dolphins offense on the sideline.
Second down
Protect the quarterback. Will Levis was sacked six times against the Colts, and hurried on plenty of throws. The Titans are in a tough spot. The quickest way to fall out of this one is to let their rookie QB get harassed into sacks or interceptions.
Third down
Find a punter and protect him. With Stonehouse on the shelf, the Titans will audition punters. They won’t find one with Stonehouse’s talents, but whoever they find, they need to protect him and fix the blunders that took place Sunday.
Fourth down
Treat it like your Super Bowl. The Titans are out of contention. The Dolphins have one of the top offenses in the NFL. It’s a prime time game Monday night, and the Titans don’t want to get embarrassed, which could easily happen. Just go out and play. Take some chances and see what happens.
Titans (4-8) at Dolphins (9-3)
Monday, December 11 | 8:15 p.m.
Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Fla.
TV: ESPN Radio: WGOW-AM/FM