Tennessee Titans Must Take Advantage of Austin Ekeler Absence in Week 2
The Tennessee Titans didn't have to see running back Alvin Kamara when they took on the New Orleans Saints due to a suspension, now in their very next game, the Titans will not face Los Angeles Chargers running back Austin Ekeler due to injury according to a report from NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
Ekeler had a tremendous performance in Week 1 against the Miami Dolphins, racking 164 total yards and a touchdown. Ekeler's versatility and ability as a receiver make him one of the more dangerous threats at running back in the entire NFL.
There is no other way to slice it, this is a major advantage for the Titans to not have to deal with Ekeler. Where you would typically see linebackers guarding running backs in the pass game, Ekeler requires the use of a defensive back. This forces defenses into tough decisions.
The Titans can now devote all of their attention to the many other offensive threats the Chargers have like Justin Herbert at quarterback, Joshua Kelley at running back and Mike Williams and Keenan Allen at wide receiver.
We have seen struggles from the Titans in pass coverage for years now. A team like the Chargers presents a very difficult challenge for the Titans' biggest weakness on defense.
With Ekeler out though, it will be one less weapon that can threaten that concerning pass defense and as mentioned before, a weapon that severely affects the defensive matchups.
With all the concern for the passing game of the Chargers, look at the box score in their Week 1 matchup and you'll see over 200 team rushing yards. The two-headed attack of Ekeler and Kelley look to be a potent duo in new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore's scheme.
Again, one less weapon the Chargers have in that aspect of the game to threaten the Titans with.
The Titans were unable to take advantage of Kamara's absence to start their season and if they are unable to come out with a win with the Chargers missing Ekeler, it would be incredibly disappointing.
Related Stories on Titans-Chargers
- HOW TO WATCH: The Titans and Chargers tangle at Noon CT on Sunday, and here's how to watch the game, with game time, TV and streaming information, and lots of newsy nuggets. CLICK HERE
- TITANS INJURY REPORT: The Tennessee Titans will be without two starters in the secondary at minimum after they released their final injury report for Week 2 on Friday. Wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins and left guard Peter Skoronski are also listed. CLICK HERE
- HOPKINS WILL PLAY: The Tennessee Titans will have their leading receiver on the field against the Los Angeles Chargers as NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported DeAndre Hopkins will play in Week 2. CLICK HERE
