When opposing teams see the Tennessee Titans on their schedule, they fully expect a heavy dose of Derrick Henry, and it’s been that way for the last few seasons.
As the old adage goes, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
The Titans have leaned on Henry to carry the load in heavy doses this year, especially when Ryan Tannehill missed two games. Malik Willis spot started in place of his teammate, but the offense undoubtedly ran through Henry.
In fact, the Titans have run the ball on 52 percent of plays this season, tied for third-most often in the league. The league average is 41 percent.
Dontrell Hilliard has been a viable complement, but Henry has accounted for nearly 77 percent of the team’s rushing yards this season.
Looking ahead to Thursday’s matchup against Green Bay, the Titans’ ground game should have the advantage against the Packers’ defense, which has been elite against the pass but bad against the run.
Green Bay’s rushing defense has allowed 1,406 yards on the season, the fifth-most in the league. Further, they are giving up 4.8 yards per attempt, tied for fifth-most with the Cleveland Browns and Dallas Cowboys.
Since Week 4, things have been even worse for Green Bay, as their defense has given up the most rushing yards in the NFL in that span.
Having Treylon Burks another week removed from being activated from injured reserve should give the Titans’ passing game a boost, which will also keep the Packers’ defense from honing in on Derrick Henry.