Aug 23, 2015; Nashville, TN, USA; Tennessee Titans running back
Bishop Sankey(20) runs for a first down during the first half against the St. Louis Rams at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
Everyone knew going into this season that with a rookie quarterback under center, the running game would need to carry the load, and move the chains.
I’m not sure if the changes on the offensive line were the catalyst for second-year running back Bishop Sankeys resurgence on Sunday night, or it was the heat he was getting from rookie David Cobb.
What ever it was, the Tennessee Titans could use more of what they were doing in game two.
Sankey carried the ball six times for 45 yards, one of which was a 19 yard scamper for a first down. His 7.5 yard average per carry is just what the doctor ordered for this team.
As soon as Sankey started eating up yardage on the ground, Mariota’s play-action opened up.
Antonio Andrews was impressive later in the game on five carries for 24 yards for a 4.8 yard average.
Rookie David Cobb got some snaps with the first team offense and didn’t look nearly as good as he did last week against the Falcons. Whisenhunt stayed with him on a drive later in the game and Cobb was unable to punch the ball in for a touchdown.
Like the offensive line, the running game is a work in progress, and something that will need to get better as we get closer to roster cut-downs and that first meeting with the Buccaneers on September 13th.
Expect to see more of it when the Titans travel to Kansas City for game thee of the preseason on Friday night.
Next: Defense