Tennessee Titans at San Diego Chargers: Important Matchups
October 31, 2010; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers tight end Antonio Gates (85) runs after a catch during the third quarter against the Tennessee Titans at Qualcomm Stadium. The Chargers won 33-25. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-US PRESSWIRE
After a forgettable loss to the New England Patriots, the Tennessee Titans will look for their first win of the season in Week 2 against the San Diego Chargers. Here’s the important matchups that will decide the game:
Titans vs. Chargers
This seems obvious, but the Titans are 0-8 in their last eight meetings against the Chargers. These two teams don’t like each other, both have been chippy and chirped in the past. Look for that trend to continue this Sunday at Qualcomm stadium.
Titans WR’s vs. Chargers DB’s
With Kenny Britt returning from suspension and injury, it’ll be interesting to see how he mixes in with the group and how he works with Jake Locker. This will be their first week practicing within the last year but remember, last year Britt’s first game back, after missing a whole off-season, he had two touchdowns. The Chargers DB’s could be vulnerable this week with Quentin Jammer playing with a cast after breaking his hand last week. This is a matchup they should exploit. Look for more points to be scored this week.
Chris Johnson vs. the World
Johnson needs to ignore everything outside of football; forget the past, forget the fact that the offensive line isn’t playing well, and just make plays. He was and should be one of the best backs in the league. It is time for him to come out focused and ball; he has done it before. He needs a break out game. This team needs him to be explosive and more consistent.
Defense vs, Philip Rivers
Keeping it simple again. Last week the defense was an overall let down. Outside of Wimbley, McCourty, and McCarthy there weren’t many bright spots. They couldn’t stop the run or pass and applied little pressure on Tom Brady. The Chargers offense is a shell of what it used to be. Phillip Rivers is coming off of a down season, Gates is old, and Ryan Mathews is injured. They have a solid group of receivers in Floyd, Meachem, and Royal, but none of them are elite.
The Titans need to get this win after a tough loss in the first week. If they excel in these matchups, they should come out just fine.
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