Both the Titans and Texans are seeking their first win of the season Sunday when they meet in an AFC survivor battle. Whoever wins will save some face in a season gone wrong. Whoever loses might not want to take out any long-term leases.
First down
Protect Cam Ward. Ward is a rookie and admits some of the 15 sacks he has taken in the first three games are on him. That said, the Titans offensive line, in part due to injuries, is no better than it was a year ago at this time. Ward is the most important piece of the puzzle, and the line has to try to keep him upright and give him a chance to make a play.
Second down
Be decisive. Brian Callahan has gotten himself into trouble twice in three games at the end of the first half with questionable decisions. It cost the Titans a touchdown in Denver that helped turn the game in the Broncos’ favor, and it bit the Titans against Indianapolis when he was late getting the field goal unit on the field. He can’t survive – and the Titans can’t win – making questionable calls like that.
Third down
Open things up. Yes, Ward needs to learn to play within the structure of the offense. But with the line struggling and the Titans not capable of making explosive plays very often within it, it might be time to let Ward be a little more freewheeling with rollouts and bootlegs to perhaps create a needed big play at an opportune moment.
Fourth down
Get to the quarterback. The Texans offensive line has been a major culprit in their struggles on offense this season. The Titans have exactly two quarterback sacks through three games. They must put pressure on C.J. Stroud, who has been prone to mistakes while under duress, if they want to have a chance to win this game.