The last time the Cardinals and Titans got together was in 2009, Jeff Fisher was still their coach, Matt Leinart was outdueled by Vince Young in the 4th quarter losing 20-17.
Lets explore what will make the Cardinals successful in defeating the Titans in 2013.
Keeping Chris Johnson in check- While Johnson hasn't been the same since his 2,006 yard season in 2009 he is still a viable running threat with his speed. Coming in against the #1 run defense in the league Johnson already has a tough task ahead of him. Johnson comes in averaging 60.8 yards a game while the Cardinals only give up 70 yards a game as a team. Johnson now likes to run vertically and try to juke defenders rather than take hits so the AZ defense will need to be aware of this.
The passing game need to be strong- As I stated in last weeks Bird Droppings Carson Palmer's elbow seemed to be alright as he went 27-32 for 269 and 1 touchdown. This week needs to be no different. Since the bye week the Cardinals have enjoyed success that was unseen in the first 8 games of the season. The offense is finally coming together and receivers are making plays. Larry Fitzgerald and Michael Floyd have come into their own. The offensive play calls have also been different. In the first half of the season there were more long passes resulting in underthrown balls becoming interceptions. Since the bye they have been calling a more of a West-Coast offense. Whatever the calls are they need to be successful. The offensive line needs to play well again since Jurrell Casey is a top 3 DT in sacks this year.
Blitz, Blitz and Blitz some more- Ryan Fitzpatrick is closer to a slow moving boulder than anything these days. If the Cardinals are able to break through the line of scrimmage it is going to make Tennessee day miserable. John Abraham picked up 3 sacks in the game against the Rams and has been an absolute beast of late, with the Titans weak line play he may be able to do it again since their line has given up 38 sacks on the year.
Keep the WR and TE in check- The one position the Cardinals have had a hard time with all season is the TE. Delanie walker is enjoying the best season of his professional career this year. Kendall Wright leads the NFL in first down receptions and needs to be contained. Arizona will need to stop them at the line like they did Jared Cook against the Rams if they want to have a chance at winning.
The Cardinals have a really winnable game at Tennessee and should be 9-5 coming out of this week if they are able to follow this plan. Losing this week would all but assure that they will miss the playoffs again considering the two games after are visiting the Seahawks and the home game finale vs the 49ers.
Injury Notes: Michael Floyd (ankle) and Carson Palmer are both listed as questionable but are expected to play. TE Rob Housler is officially doubtful after missing 3 straight practices. On the Titans side Alterraun Verner (groin) and linebacker Akeem Ayers (groin) are listed as
questionable.
Notes: Credit to my friend Marty for the perspective of a Titans fan.