3 things the Colts must do to beat the Titans

Oct 31, 2021; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Tennessee Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) runs the ball while Indianapolis Colts middle linebacker Bobby Okereke (58) defends in overtime at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 31, 2021; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Tennessee Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) runs the ball while Indianapolis Colts middle linebacker Bobby Okereke (58) defends in overtime at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Quenton Nelson #56 of the Indianapolis Colts stands in a huddle during the second half against the Jacksonville Jaguars. (Photo by Courtney Culbreath/Getty Images) /

2. Colts must control the trenches

Indianapolis has invested a lot into its offensive line the last few years and as a result, the team should be able to rely on them but that has not been the case so far. The offensive line has not lived up to the cost and they aren’t even delivering in the run game. They are not getting a good push on called runs, and have not done the best in pass protection. The Colts will need to step that up heading into this game.

The Titans have very good pass rushers and guys that can get to the quarterback and stuff the run. Guys like Bud Dupree and Jeffery Simmons are both elite pass rushers. Indy could have its hands full with them. Look for Indianapolis to keep a running back in to block or possibly an extra tight end if the pass rush gets too bad.

While it is important for the offensive line to hold up, the Colts must also get after Ryan Tannehill and company. DeForest Buckner has not been a factor this year like we saw the past two years for Indy. Tennessee had to shut down arguably its best offensive lineman, Taylor Lewan, and that could hurt them against the Colts and their emerging defensive line.

This may be the most important key to this game for Indianapolis. If they can not hold up against the Titans’ pass rush or get to Tannehill, Indy could be in for a long day on Sunday. On the flip side, if they control the trenches, you have the like the Colts’ chances.