Tennessee Titans have bad performances from key players in loss

Derrick Henry, RB

From 2016-2019 the Titans were undefeated when Derrick Henry had over 100 rushing yards. While that is a fun stat, it hasn’t exactly been true in 2020.

In Week 8 against the Cincinnati Bengals, Henry finished with 112 rushing yards, but the Titans lost that game 20-31. A few weeks later when the Titans played their division rival in the Colts, Henry played great with 103 rushing yards, but again it didn’t matter and the Titans were handed their third loss of the season.

We also know that when Derrick Henry does not have a great game, it is very hard for this team to beat opponents handily. The whole offense relies on Derrick Henry and the feat that the running game instills in opposing defenses.

That fear sets up the passing game in a play action offense, and Henry is not playing well then it forces more on to Ryan Tannehill’s plate.

Derrick Henry had a few plays that literally changed the momentum of the game. To start the game the Browns had the ball first, and Tennessee held them to a field goal. When it was the Titans turn, they quickly were forced into a fourth-down situation and knowing this coaching staff they had to go for it on fourth and one.

However, Henry couldn’t get it over the line and the Titans gave the ball to the Browns. Coming back to the Titans next offensive possession, Derrick Henry fumbled the ball letting the Browns have good field position.

We have been spoiled by so many excellent Derrick Henry games that it is jarring to see a game where Henry has two plays that end in a change of possession like that. Henry is still great, but this was a tough day for him and he has to be fired up to get back out there.