Tennessee Titans: Who’s to Blame for the Run Game?

Sep 09, 2012; Nashville, TN, USA; Tennessee Titans running back Chris Johnson (28) runs with the ball after a reception against the New England Patriots during the second half at LP Field. The Patriots beat the Titans 34-13. Mandatory credit: Don McPeak-US PRESSWIRE

Who’s to blame for the Tennessee Titans run game struggles? That’s the question echoing through the internet today and plenty of people have been quick to chime in with their opinion. PFT even has a report that says sources say Titans players are grumbling today and pointing the finger at Chris Palmer.

Whether or not they really are doing such a thing doesn’t really matter to me; I’m blaming him too.

Though some of the weight certainly lies on the offensive line, there has been a change since Palmer has started here and it’s throwing the run game off. Chris Johnson is still himself. That I have no doubt of.

Here’s an important note from yesterday’s game, courtesy of Paul Kuharsky:

"— Chris Johnson rushed for a career-low four yards on 11 rushes. Johnson never gained more than 2 yards after contact on a rush and the Patriots defenses hit Johnson at or behind the line of scrimmage on eight-of-11 rushes. Johnson’s previous rushing low was 5 yards on seven rushes against the Texans in 2010."

That’s the exact same thing that was happening last year. Exactly.

The question remains, why is it still happening? The line may not be the best, but it’s strange that they can do so well in pass blocking while being so absolutely awful in run blocking.

Munchak seems to have a weakness when it comes to his O-line. It’s a spot of pride that he doesn’t seem eager to change, and that scares me. Something has to be done, whether it’s a scheme change or something else. The Titans can’t repeat last years running results.

Kenny Britt will be back for this next game and that should help take some pressure of Johnson, but I still don’t think that will fix things. I made it known that I was worried about the O-line headed into this season and so far my fears have been confirmed. If Munchak and Palmer don’t address this issue, it won’t be long before Titans fans are wearing brown bags over their heads again.

What do you think?

You can find me on Twitter @JustinLStewart