Since becoming the head coach of the Tennessee Titans last year, Ken Whisenhunt has been trying to find consistency in his run game. From Shonn Greene to Bishop Sankey. From Bishop Sankey to David Cobb….then back to Sankey. No, wait…from Sankey to Terrance West…
Are you confused yet?
Prior to the start of training camp, coach Whiz stated that he’d prefer a lead back…a bell cow if you will. He is trying everything and everyone, but for all of his efforts, we are still unclear on who he favors as his number one guy.
And with the events that unfolded in Cleveland Sunday afternoon, it seems as if the situation just got cloudier.
After a career day last week, Bishop Sankey carried the ball just twelve times Sunday. His 3.5 yards a carry was impressive given the offensive line’s woeful performance. He was targeted only twice in the passing game, with no receptions. Any momentum gained from last week came to a screeching halt.
Terrance West’s performance in the Dawg Pound Sunday landed him in the dog house. His early fumble put Tennessee in an early hole. And as a result, his number was called only twice more the entire game.
And then we have seldom used Dexter McCluster, who turned out to be the Titans’ biggest weapon. He ran for 98 yards on 10 carries, and it was nearly 150-plus yards and a touchdown after getting tripped up on a run that he reversed the field on.
McCluster caught four passes, and averaged nearly seven yards a reception. He also returned punts. And he also earned a chance for more opportunities next week.
But then again…so did Sankey last week.
It will be interesting to see how quickly McCluster sees the field this Sunday, or if he’ll even start the game all together. From what we’ve seen from coach Whiz, it certainly wouldn’t be viewed as unconventional thinking on his part.
Since his arrival in Nashville last year, McCluster was never truly considered an option to lead the Titans’ rushing attack. And he still may not. But with the state of the running back situation, it wouldn’t hurt to throw his hat in the ring.
Next: Restoring your faith in Marcus Mariota