The Titans enter AFC South play Sunday as the Indianapolis Colts come to town. The 0-2 Titans need this game in the worst way, especially with the 2-0 Colts headed to Nissan Stadium. Let’s look at what the Titans need in order to win.
First down
Protect Cam Ward. Ward has already been sacked 11 times in two games, and that rate is not sustainable if they want to keep him in one piece and let him develop into a solid quarterback. Even with the offensive line injuries, the protection has to get better in order to give Ward a fighting chance.
Second down
Turn Ward loose. This piggybacks off protecting Ward, but the Titans need to let Ward be more aggressive. He has shown early on he has a good understanding of how to play at this level and very few times has he put the ball in harm’s way. Goodness knows, the Titans could use some explosive plays on offense and Ward has the ability to provide some of that. It might even be good to encourage him to run more just to give the offense an additional element.
Third down
Get some pass rush. The Titans had just one sack Sunday against Matthew Stafford, and he predictably carved them up. They had better find a way to pressure the resurgent Daniel Jones, who in two weeks as the Colts starter is playing some of the best football of his career. Otherwise, it could be another long day for the defense.
Fourth down
Find the end zone. Ward’s first touchdown pass was a sensational play, but it is the only touchdown the Titans have to show this season. Otherwise, Joey Slye’s foot has provided all of the scoring. The Titans have to find a way to score a touchdown by any means possible even if it means defense or special teams does it.