For the second week in a row and for the third time in the first six games, the Indianapolis Colts have a divisional matchup this week, traveling to Tennessee to take on the Titans.
At 2-3 on the season and only entering Week 6, perhaps it's hyperbolic to say that this is a must win for the Colts. However, even if we don't want to go to that extreme, it is an important one. Not only will a loss put the Colts at 2-4 on the year, albeit with there still being plenty of time to overcome that start, they'll also fall to 0-3 in the division and 1-3 in the AFC.
When it comes to tie-breakers, that is a much bigger hole for a team to dig themselves out of.
While the Titans are a common divisional opponent, every year for every team is different. So, let's take a closer look at the 2024 version of this Tennessee team:
Last week: Titans were on a bye
Tennessee Titans quarterback Will Levis (8) throws against the New York Jets during the third quarter at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., Sunday, Sept. 15, 2024.
The Tennessee Titans had an early bye in Week 5. For the Colts, this means they will be facing an opponent who will have the rest advantage as well as additional time to prepare for this matchup. Prior to the bye, the Titans secured their first win of the season to improve to 1-3 on the year.
Quarterback play
(Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
Will Levis exited the Titans Week 4 matchup with a shoulder injury. Backup quarterback Mason Rudolph would then help lead Tennessee to their first win. Once healthy, however, head coach Brian Callahan has said that Levis will be the starter. Levis was a full participant in Wednesday's practice.
It's been a rocky start to the year for Levis. On one hand, he's completed 68.4 percent of his throws and has flashed some playmaking. However, he's also been wildly inconsistent and turnover prone with six interceptions on the year. Pressure from the Colts defensive front will be a key factor in this game, speeding Levis up along with disrupting the timing and rhythm of the play-potentially leading to turnover opportunities.
Line of scrimmage
Sep 22, 2024; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Titans defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons (98) and linebacker Arden Key (49) get fired up against the Green Bay Packers during pregame warmups at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
The game of football has changed a lot over the years, but oftentimes games are still won and lost in the trenches. Defensively, the Titans have held up well against the run with Jeffery Simmons and T'Vondre Sweat in the middle of their front. The 4.2 yards per carry allowed is the 10th-best rate in football. This unit has, however, not gotten after the quarterback consistently, ranking 25th in pressure rate.
On the other side of the ball, the Tennessee offensive line has allowed a hefty amount of sacks and pressures. They're also generating a modest 4.2 yards per rush, which ranks 19th.
Turnover battle
Indianapolis Colts defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo (54) disrupts Tennessee Titans quarterback Will Levis (8) as he sets to throw during their game at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., Sunday, Dec. 3, 2023.
As already alluded to, the turnover battle has not gone well for the Titans this season. They are currently minus-7 on the year, which is tied for last with the Raiders. In addition to Levis giving the ball away, the defense has not been able to create many takeaways, with only two through four games. This, again, is the worst mark in the NFL.
Injury update
Oct 8, 2023; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; A Tennessee Titans helmet sits in the end zone before the game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marc Lebryk-USA TODAY Sports
Below you will see the Titans initial injury report from Wednesday. Of note, Jamal Adams did not practice, while Simmons, L'Jarius Sneed, and DeAndre Hopkins were limited.
For a look at the Colts initial injury report, click here. For more on Michael Pittman, who is reportedly going to miss some time, click here.
Stats to know
Denny Simmons/The Tennessean
I recently put together an article comparing the Colts and Titans in key statistical categories. For a closer look at those key metrics, click here.
Players to know
Tennessee Titans wide receiver Calvin Ridley (0) brings in a touchdown against the New York Jets during the third quarter at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., Sunday, Sept. 15, 2024.
RB Tony Pollard: Pollard is the Titans' primary ball carrier. He's totaled 246 rushing yards at 4.0 yards per attempt with two touchdowns. Backup running back Tyjae Spears is often used in the passing game.
WR Calvin Ridley: Ridley leads the team in targets and has been their best playmaker in the passing game as well, averaging an impressive 15.7 yards per reception this season.
DE Harold Landry: With Simmons garnering attention in the middle, at defensive end Harold Landry leads the Titans in pressures with 10 and in sacks with four.
CB L'Jarius Sneed: According to PFF, Sneed has taken almost all of his snaps on the boundary this season. He's been targeted 12 times and allowing only five receptions for 65 yards. His passer rating when targeted is 59.4.