Arthur Smith Reveals How Tennessee Titans' Derrick Henry Challenges Atlanta Falcons Defense

Atlanta Falcons head coach Arthus Smith is well aware that his league-best run defense will be threatened by Tennessee Titans running back Derrick Henry.

Tennessee Titans running back may be the focus of trade rumors until Tuesday’s deadline, but for now, he’s attempting to keep a timid offense alive in a tightly-contested AFC.

On Sunday, that journey continues when the Titans host the Atlanta Falcons. At 4-3 and in first place in the NFC South, Atlanta has been content with winning by whatever means necessary—winning ugly has seemingly become a habit.

Remaining in first place likely requires taking down Tennessee who, for better or worse, will go as far as Henry will take them.

Titans running back Derrick Henry breaks free against the Jacksonville Jaguars / Mike Watters | USA TODAY Sports

Falcons head coach Arthus Smith spoke about the challenge that comes with stopping one of the league’s best backs.

“I mean, there are great players that you have to face every week,” Smith said. “Last week, [Tampa Bay Buccaneers receiver] Mike Evans. This week, it’s Derrick. It’s a different challenge, but the thing is you try to play with good fundamentals and understand where you don’t want to get exposed.”

In six games this season, Henry has logged 98 carries for 425 yards and three scores. He’s seen complementary back Tyjae Spears eat into his snap count, but keeping his legs fresh could pay dividends as the autumn months grow colder.

To Atlanta’s credit, they are well-equipped to stop the superstar. They boast the league’s best run defense by expected points added per play and rank sixth in success rate.

Henry may be the most difficult assignment of the season for this run defense. Aside from being more difficult to tackle in the open field and more dangerous than others when it comes to wearing out defenses in short-yardage situations, the job description remains the same. Although, Smith did admit it’s easier said than done.

“You have to be sound in your run fits,” Smith said. “No matter what the call is, understand what the issues are so you’re not out of gaps … if you let somebody through the first level, you have to tackle in space. If they get through the second level, look out. Now, you’re relying on your safeties or your secondary support to get them down.”

Playing fundamentally sound football has helped the Falcons dominate opposing rushing attacks, though only the Jacksonville Jaguars have truly tested them on the ground. Doing so in Week 8 will be pivotal in putting the defense in favorable situations on third down.

With rookie quarterback Will Levis a decent bet to see the field, Atlanta could find itself hunting for sacks and turnovers. Controlling the ground game and containing Henry makes that task even easier.