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Denico Autry vs. Rodger Saffold
Colts DT Denico Autry had a good bit of success against Titans LG Rodger Saffold in 2019. He had three sacks and a few hurries lined up primarily over Saffold in the two games.
— Zach Hicks (@ZachHicks2) August 9, 2020
Autry's hands have to be among some of the best in the league for DT's. Insanely strong. pic.twitter.com/dnC53t8Mkw
As pointed out by our very own Zach Hicks, Denico Autry has enjoyed plenty of success against Titans guard Rodger Saffold in the past. With the addition of DeForest Buckner to the 3-technique spot, Denico Autry has moved outside to defensive end, but with the amount of stunts Eberflus likes to call, expect at least some one-on-one matchups between these two, and Autry can once again get the upper hand and put pressure on Tannehill.
Nyheim Hines vs. Trevor Daniel
Last season against the Carolina Panthers we were all witnesses to Hines ability as a punt returner, but he still has not been able to showcase that explosiveness this season. This might change on Thursday, as the Titans will be without their starting punter in Brett Kern, and UDFA Trevor Daniel will start for him. A couple of explosive returns from Nyheim would make things a lot easier for an offense struggling to find its footing.
DeForest Buckner vs. Derrick Henry
Unstoppable force, meet immovable object. Henry has not been the wrecking ball he was last season but is still a force to be reckoned with, while Buckner has elevated this defensive line to the next level. Fireworks when these two eventually clash in the hole.
Philip Rivers vs. His own recklessness
Rivers is certainly an upgrade over Brissett but sometimes he just makes mistakes that are so avoidable and unnecessary, like last Sunday’s interception against the Ravens. In today’s NFL, defense alone does not win games and the Colts need to put some points on the board and allow the defense some much needed time to rest between drives. If not, history will repeat itself and the Titans will be able to run the ball at will. The defense will not be happy if they have to tackle Derrick Henry for 10 straight plays, and when they finally stop him they have to jump right back into the field because Uncle Phil just YOLO’d the ball into double coverage on first down.
Rodrigo Blankenship vs. Kicking away from LOS
Of Blankenship’s 4 missed kicks this season, 3 have been away from the friendly confines of Lucas Oil Stadium. With a close game being the most likely outcome, Rodrigo will have to be able to find the consistency he has been missing on the road.