Tennessee Titans @ Cincinnati Bengals Defensive Preview

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We all know this, but the Titans defense really needs to be a full strength in this game.  The Bengals have a high flying passing game led by Carson Palmer who has thrown for 2,793 yards with 18 TDs and 14 INTs.  T.J. Houshmandzadeh is having his best year this season with 806 yards and 11 TDs.  They also have Chad Johnson (938 yards and 3 TDs) who can break the game wide open on any play.  Hopefully Nick Harper will be ready to go because they cannot afford to have Reynaldo Hill out there chasing these receivers.  The Titans also cannot afford to miss tackles in this game like they did on Monday night.  These receivers are so good that you only get one shot to get them on the ground.  If you don't take advantage of it, they will make you pay.

The Bengals only average about 86 yards per game on the ground, but that is mainly because they are so good through the air.  Rudi Johnson has been battling a hamstring injury all season, but Kenny Watson has filled in well in his absence.  If Albert Haynesworth can play, the Bengals probably won't do much on the ground.

This would be a good chance for the Titans defense to prove they are back.  If they can shut down this high flying offense, the will make people believers again. That is no easy task however.